They want to please others and gain love and approval. Children are taught not to question authority, and they believe adults are always right. Older children and adults who abuse know this and take advantage of these vulnerabilities in children. Sexual abuse is an abuse of power over a child and a violation of a child's right to normal, healthy and trusting relationships. Because most children cannot or do not tell about being sexual abused, it is up to concerned adults to recognize the signs of abuse.
Physical evidence is rare.
Therefore, we must look for behavioral signs. Unfortunately, there is no one behavior alone that definitely determines a child has been sexual abused. If a child trusts you enough to tell you about an incident of sexual abuse, you are in an important position to help that child recover. The following suggestions can help you provide positive support. Your initial reaction may be one of anger toward the person responsible for abuse.