Children's Sexual Behaviors and Their Relationship to Sexual Abuse (From Vulnerable Populations: Evaluation and Treatment of Sexually Abused Children and Adult Survivors, Volume 1, P 1-24, 1988, Suzanne M Sgroi, ed. -- See NCJ-118378)

• NCJ Number: 118379
• Author(s): S M Sgroi; B S Bunk; C J Wabrek
• Date Published: 1988
• Length: 24 pages
• Sale Source: Lexington Books
• Publication Type: Issue Overview
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This chapter discusses the normal and age-appropriate sexual behaviors for children at various developmental stages, a child's behavior that suggests sexual victimization, and when a child's sexual behavior with others is abusive.

Abstract

In discussing normative sexual behaviors at various developmental stages (0-5 years, 6-10 years, 10-12 years, and 13-18 years), the chapter examines behaviors in touching oneself, looking at others in stages of undress, and touching others. The chapter notes that acting-out or dysfunctional behaviors may be symptoms of sexual victimization in children but are not direct indicators. Three direct behavioral indicators of child sexual abuse, however, include excessive masturbation, promiscuity, and the sexual abuse of another person. A methodology of assessing sexually abusive behavior by children is presented. It involves the complaint status (has a complaint of sexual abuse been made), behavioral indicators of sexual abuse, compliance with developmental norms for sexual behavior, the relative power positions of participants, the use of force or intimidation, ritualistic or sadistic behaviors, and secrecy. 8 references.