SEXUAL ABUSE -- IT CAN’T HAPPEN IN MY FAMILY…

Sexually abused children are told by the offender to keep the behavior a secret. This and other factors may keep a child from telling anyone about it. A child may believe that he or she has already told you in some indirect way or may think that no one is going to believe them.

Check these warning signals if you suspect a child may have been or is being sexually abused:
 
  Yes No  
 
  A marked or sudden change in the child’s behavior. This may include reverting to old behaviors: bedwetting; nightmares, or discipline
problems.
  A reluctance to go to a particular place or be with a particular person, even though previous visits have caused no distress.
  An unusual interest in sexual behavior or in the genitals of people or animals, or inappropriate expressions of affection (fondling, etc.).
  Using sexual vocabulary that he or she is too young to understand or which has not been taught by you; teaching sexual games to other children.
  A diagnosis of a sexually transmitted disease – if your child has an STD, he or she caught it from someone.
  One partner begins using some form of chemicals heavily, such as pills or alcohol.
  Other signals may include developing new fears, needing more parental reassurance, loss of or sudden gain in appetite, turning against one parent. Older children may also be involved in truancy, drug abuse, delinquency or running away.
 
Don’t be afraid to ask your child some questions if more than 3 of these warning signals are present. It may be difficult to talk about it, but your child needs your help. Consult your pastor or another professional for help in taking the next step. Professional Christian counseling and assistance is available by calling Lutheran Family Service at (800) 622-7285.