This is a blog I don’t want to write. It is unthinkable to much of the human population to abuse a child, let alone a baby. And yet, for some pedophiles, abusing a toddler (or infant) is ideal because they can’t tell you what happened. This morning I read an article about a man who has confessed to sexually assaulting numerous children, including an 18 month old baby but who was been let go without a jail sentence. What’s worse is that although he has confessed to the assaults, he has used his position in his church to gain the trust and respect of parents and children alike. Since I have been focusing on moms going back to work recently, I thought I might share some very common signs that might indicate abuse or trauma in those who are simply unable to tell you what happened. I truly hope that you never have need for this article or information.
Regression to ‘babyish’ behaviors
One of the most common signs of abuse is regression in behavior. If your toddler was toilet trained, having frequent accidents can be a sign of trauma. Sometimes toddlers will suck their thumb as well, even when they had never done so before.
Fascination with Genetalia
Touching one’s genetalia or touching other children’s genetalia even after you’ve asked him/her to stop. A big red flag is if your toddler wants to touch an older child’s genetalia.
Unexplicable or uncharacteristic anxiety about certain people or places
Often children will cry when they once had not cried, or will have accidents upon seeing their abuser (or the place associated with abuse) or in some way display other seemingly odd behavior.
I do need to mention that regression, exploring one’s self and/or anxiety are all also a normal part of toddlerhood. Just because your baby is suddenly anxious about being dropped off is not an automatic sign of abuse. However, several ‘red flags’ may pop up or you may just have a feeling that something isn’t right or the extent to which a behavior is exhibited may make you wonder if something is wrong. If your gut tells you something isn’t quite right, listen to it.
Related Articles:
What To Do If Your Child Tells You He’s Been Abused
Teaching Your Child About Child Molestors