Teens and Sexual Abuse

You and your teen may find it difficult or uncomfortable to talk about sex and sexuality. However, although many parents and teens are opening up more conversations regarding sex, they tend to overlook one issue: sexual abuse.

As the parent of teens, it’s extremely important to help your teen recognize any signs of abuse in themselves or anyone around them. Sexual abuse, blackmail or harassment may not be as recognizable to your teen as other types of behaviors are.

Facts and Tips on Sexual Abuse

Sexual abusers can make their victims extremely afraid of revealing that they’re being abused. The victim will typically open up only after someone makes a special effort to make the victim feel safe.

If a teen says that they’ve been molested, try to remain calm and reassure the teen that what happened was not their fault. Seek a medical examination expert and psychiatric consultation for the victimized teen.

Victims of prolonged sexual abuse usually develop low self-esteem, a feeling of worthlessness and an abnormal or distorted view of sex and sexuality. The victim may become withdrawn, mistrustful of adults and very depressed.

It may be difficult to identify whether or not your teen has been sexually abused. Unfortunately, some signs can only be detected upon a physical examination conducted by a medical professional or physician.

However, sexually abused teens tend to develop some of the following traits and warning signs:

• Unusual interest in or avoidance of all things of a sexual nature.
• Sleep problems or nightmares.
• Depression or withdrawal from friends or family.
• Seductiveness.
• Statements or belief that their bodies are dirty or damaged.
• Fear that there is something wrong with them in the genital area.
• Refusal to go to school.
• Delinquency and behavior problems.
• Secretiveness.
• Aspects of sexual molestation in drawings, games, fantasies, etc.
• Unusual aggressiveness.
• Suicidal behavior.

Preventing Sexual Abuse

You can prevent or lessen the chance of teen sexual abuse with these practices:

• Keep communication between you and your teen open so they know you’re always available to talk about their problems. Be willing to listen to and believe what your teen tells you.
• Explain to your teen about personal boundaries. Tell your teen, “If someone tries to touch your body or do things that make you feel uncomfortable, say ‘no’ and tell me right away.”
• Teach your teen that respect does not mean blind obedience. No one should use their authority to take advantage of your teen.
• Encourage professional prevention programs in the local school system.

Becoming involved in your teen’s life may help you identify if your teen is a victim. Constant openness, trust and communication will especially help you better identify whether or not your teen is in any emotional or physical danger.

Reviewed by: Nancy Brown, Ph.D.

Last reviewed: December 2019