Sometimes it’s not easy to recognise abuse, the child often hides it very well in fear of more abuse and we live in a society where we tend to turn a blind eye and don’t want to get involved. YOU have the power to change this cycle of abuse!

Physical Signs:

• Any injury, soreness, redness, swelling or itching around the genital or anal area
• Venereal disease
• Fluctuations in body mass
• Pregnancy

Behavioral Signs:

• Inappropriate sexual play with self and others
• Inappropriate sexually explicit drawings
• Knowledge of sexual acts that is age-inappropriate
• Seductive behaviour
• Excessive masturbation
• Double dressing
• Avoidance of bathrooms
• Late arrival or absence from school
• Personality changes
• Change in appetite
• Sudden weight gain/loss
• Self mutilation
• Inability to concentrate
• Locking doors
• Very eager to please others (over-compliance)
• Depression
• Suicidal tendencies
• Nightmares
• Not wanting friends/family or certain person to visit
• Not wanting to go home or to a friend/family member for unknown reasons
• Promiscuity
• Prostitution
• Running away