The Grace Tame Foundation
Recognising the Signs of Child Sexual Abuse
The Grace Tame Foundation is committed to advancing initiatives to end child sexual abuse. We believe that awareness and education are key to preventing child sexual abuse and safeguarding children.
Child sexual abuse and grooming are topics that can be uncomfortable and difficult to discuss. This leads to silence and misunderstanding, allowing abuse to continue. The Grace Tame Foundation believes that education holds the key to breaking the silence and preventing abuse occurring.
If you, or someone close to you needs immediate help, please contact 000 or one of National Crisis Lines.
Recognising the Signs of Child Sexual Abuse
Children and young people who experience sexual abuse may show a range of physical, emotional, and behavioural signs. These can vary depending on age, developmental stage, and individual circumstances. In some cases, there may be no visible signs at all. Raising awareness and speaking openly about child sexual abuse helps with prevention, early identification, and support.
Physical Signs
Possible physical indicators of child sexual abuse include:
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Headaches or stomach aches with no clear medical cause
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Bed-wetting
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Changes in appetite or weight loss
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Sleep disturbances or nightmares
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Bruises on soft parts of the body (e.g. thighs, buttocks)
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Redness, swelling or discharge in the genital area
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Pain or discomfort when using the toilet¹ ²
Emotional and Behavioural Signs
A child or young person may also show emotional or behavioural changes, such as:
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Sudden mood swings, anxiety, depression or withdrawal
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Self-harming behaviours or thoughts of suicide
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Poor personal hygiene or lack of self-care
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Use of drugs or alcohol
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Excessive compliance or eagerness to please
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Aggression, irritability or anger
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Running away from home or school
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Desexualised behaviour (e.g. wearing oversized clothing to hide their body)
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Eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia
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Avoidance of certain people, places or situations¹ ²
Additional Considerations
For very young children, or children and young people with disability, additional signs may include:
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Behavioural outbursts or self-harm not previously observed
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Loss of previously acquired skills (e.g. speech, toileting)
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Delays in reaching developmental milestones (e.g. walking, talking)
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Repetitive or self-stimulating behaviours such as rocking or head-banging³
Online Exploitation and Grooming
Children and young people who are being groomed, blackmailed or exploited online may also show a range of behavioural and emotional signs. Learn more on our Grooming practices page.
Sorce:
National Office of Child Saftey: https://www.childsafety.gov.au/about-child-sexual-abuse/signs-and-indicators-child-sexual-abuse
