Symptoms of Sexual Abuse

This content contains sensitive subject matter related to sexual abuse.

The signs of sexual abuse are not always obvious. There may be no physical signs of sexual abuse, or the victim hides the signs. Victims of abuse may not want to speak out because they are ashamed, blame themselves, or don’t want to get someone in trouble.

Check for possible symptoms of sexual abuse and report any suspected abuse to law enforcement or the National Sexual Assault Hotline. You may also want to consult with an attorney to find out how to ensure the abuser is held accountable for what they did.

The laws for mandatory reporting of sexual abuse vary by state. If you want to know about your legal rights and obligations involving sexual abuse, contact a local sexual abuse attorney for advice.

How Can I Tell if Someone Is Being Abused?

It can be difficult to identify sexual abuse. Some signs of abuse are physical, and others are emotional or behavioral. Even close friends or family members may not know sexual abuse is happening. Abusers can come in many forms. Child abusers, including family members, teachers, church representatives, counselors, or coaches, often have access to children.

Many people are cautious about reporting possible child sexual abuse because they are not sure. They may explain away suspicious activity. However, in many states, certain people are required to report suspected abuse. Mandatory reporters in certain professions have a legal obligation to report suspected abuse.

Depending on the state, mandatory reporters may include:

• Teachers
• Medical professionals
• Police officers
• Child caregivers

In some states, anyone with reasonable cause to believe a child is being abused must immediately make a report.

What To Look For With Sexual Abuse

The signs of sexual abuse may differ depending on whether the victim is a younger child, young person, or adult. According to the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), warning signs of possible abuse can include the following:

Signs of Sexual Abuse in Young Children

• Sudden changes in behavior
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• Injuries around the genital areas
• Not wanting to be alone with certain people
• Inappropriate sexual behavior or discussions
• Change in mood
• Self-harm
• Unexplained health problems like stomach aches
• Bedwetting after growing out of it

Signs of Abuse in Teens and Young Adults

• Eating disorders
• Self-mutilation
• Suicidal thoughts
• Low self-esteem
• Bruising or burns

Many teens and young adults are at the age when they begin getting involved in intimate relationships with other people. Young people can be victims of sexual abuse by older people or intimate partners of the same age. Online sexual abuse is more common for teens and young adults, including revenge porn and coercing them into unwanted sexual activity.

Signs of Abuse in Adults

Sexual abuse in adults can involve abuse by an intimate partner, spouse, strangers, or someone in a position of power. Signs of possible sexual abuse in adults may include:

• Bruising and physical injuries
• Depression
• Self-harm
• Avoiding certain places or people
• Substance abuse
• Partners preventing them from being around friends or family

Can a Lawyer Help if I Suspect Abuse?

A sexual abuse lawyer can help you determine what to do next if you suspect abuse. An attorney can help you decide whether you must report your suspicions and how to report the abuse to keep the victims safe.

Survivors of sexual abuse may also want to reach out to an attorney for an initial consultation about their legal rights. In some cases, the victim of abuse can file a civil lawsuit to hold the abuser accountable for what they did. A lawsuit can also help the victim get compensation for their injuries. Damages in a civil sexual abuse claim can include health care bills and mental health counseling to help with the long-term effects of abuse.

Where Can I Get Help for an Abuse Victim?

If you suspect abuse or are a victim of sexual abuse, you can reach out to child protective services, law enforcement, or a toll-free helpline. The RAINN website has a search tool to find local resources where you live. There are also victim-specific resources for victims of childhood sexual abuse, LGBTQ+ helplines, male survivors of sexual violence, teen dating abuse, and others.