What Constitutes Child Sexual Abuse?

Listed below are a few examples of what constitutes child sexual abuse. Often some victims are unaware of the full impact of what happened to them as a child – it is not until later in life that the full impact becomes apparent. What should be clear in the mind of the victim is that it was sexual abuse. We can often dismiss the fact that it was sexual abuse because the perpetrator was someone known to us and possibly very close. Always try to make up your own mind if what happened to you did constitute sexual abuse.

Also please note: no professional can “diagnose” sexual abuse – that would be an assumption on their part, not a fact.

• Discussing a child’s sexual development
• Physically examining a child for false health/hygiene reasons
• Adults exposing themselves to a child for sexual gratification
• Engaging in sexual activity in front of a child
• Witnessing others being sexually abused
• Adults touching a child sexually
• Engaging a child in touching an adult sexually
• Penetrating the child
• Showing the child pornographic material
• Photographing the child for sexual purposes
• Engaging the child in prostitution

Looking at the above list, it is hard to believe that some people would not see these actions as abusive. However, the child victim may not see it as abuse until much later in life – or maybe never see it at all. If, however, you decide it was not sexual abuse then go ahead with your life, but also keep in mind it’s your right to change your mind.