Common Symptoms of Sexual Abuse

By Angie Woodward

If you’re like most parents, you’re desperate to get into your teenage daughter’s head. But rather than talk to you, she coops herself up in her bedroom. Her silence is deafening.

Even louder is the voice inside of you that’s screaming for answers. Her behavior is much more than mere teenage angst…she’s troubled, and you want to know why. If only you could get her to open up.

If you’re like many parents, the fear of sexual abuse against your child is constantly on your mind, and for good reason. Predators have always existed, and technological advancements such as the Internet make their jobs much easier. If you suspect your teen daughter has been victimized, look for the following symptoms.

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder developed after a terrifying, life-altering experience. Cases of PTSD are commonly seen in military combat, accident victims, or any other situation where physical safety was threatened. Sexual abuse certainly qualifies.

Teens with Symptoms of PTSD include social withdrawal, sleep problems, and jumpiness. If you notice significant changes or new, unusual habits in your child, don’t ignore them. If left untreated, PTSD can progress into adulthood.

Sexually Reactive Behavior

About one-third of children who are sexually abused display sexual behavior. Immediately following the abuse, the child will act more promiscuous than other children their age, regardless of how young they are. Other immediate symptoms of sexual assault in children include behavioral problems, low self-esteem, and disruptiveness.

Long-Term Effects

If left undiscovered, sexual abuse can lead to health problems such as heart disease. Psychological symptoms of sexual abuse are never ending, and include depression, anxiety, PTSD, sexual dysfunction, and substance abuse. In some cases, attempts at suicide are made, many of which serve as a cry for help.

Summary

Sexual abuse steals a person’s ability to be happy and thrive, and it must not be tolerated. If you detect any of these sexual abuse symptoms in your teen daughter, get them to talk at all costs. Be a parent first, and a friend second. They’ll appreciate your concern.

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Angie Woodward is a Registered Nurse in Wyoming and is the founder and owner/director of Trinity Teen Solutions, Inc. TTS is a licensed Christian Girl’s Boarding School for troubled teens and their families. Call 307-645-3384 for a free consultation.

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