Involves forcing or enticing an adult/child to take part in sexual activities, whether or not the adult/child is aware of what is happening. The activities may involve physical contact, including penetrative (i.e. rape) or non-penetrative acts. They may include non-contact activities, such as involving children in the production or viewing of pornographic material or encouraging adults/children to behave in sexually inappropriate ways.
Children involved in commercial sex work are victims of sexual abuse, whether they perceive themselves as victims or not.
Signs of sexual abuse
Pain or irritation to the genital area
Vaginal or penile discharge
Difficulty with urination
Infection, bleeding
STDs
Fear of people or places
Aggression
Aggressive behaviors, bed-wetting or stranger anxiety
Excessive masturbation
Sexually provocative
Stomach pains or discomfort walking or sitting
Being unusually quiet and withdrawn or unusually aggressive
Suffering from what seem physical ailments that can’t be explained medically
Showing fear or distrust of a particular adult
Mentioning receiving special attention from an adult or a new “secret” friendship with an adult or young person
Refusal to continue with school or usual social activities
Inappropriate sexualized behavior or language