EBN-Child sexual abuse is a very painful and sad issue that affects many children around the world . It is important to raise awareness of this issue and provide support to survivors and others affected. Awareness is the first step in combating child sexual abuse and breaking the silence that often surrounds it, which leads to the continuation of abuse of children, especially girls. According to the “kasp” website, we learn about the forms of harassment that children can be exposed to and tips on how to deal with it, especially since our children may be in places open to the public from which the child can disappear in the blink of an eye, such as open markets, schools, sports and entertainment clubs, large shopping malls, and others.
Forms of harassment that children may be exposed to
Harassment can take different forms, including:
1. Verbal harassment is inappropriate words or comments about appearance or body, or suggestive words.
2. Physical harassment is inappropriate touching or excessive closeness to the body, especially touching certain parts of the girl.
3. Visual harassment is intense staring in an uncomfortable way or showing inappropriate pictures that may offend modesty.
4. Electronic harassment is sending inappropriate text messages or pictures online on various social media platforms.
5. Coercion or threat to do something offensive and forcing a girl or boy to do something uncomfortable under threat or pressure.
Tips for children when exposed to harassment
1. Say “No” out loud Children should be taught that they have the right to refuse any uncomfortable or inappropriate behavior, and “No” should be said firmly and strongly.
2. Escape the situation immediately, move away from the place where the harassing person is, go to a safe place, and return home to your family immediately.
3. Notify a trusted person if the child is separated from his parents or the teacher if the child is at school or any trusted adult immediately, then contact the parents and inform them immediately.
4. The child must be made aware that the harasser is very cowardly and there is no need to fear him no matter how threatening he is. He must not submit to him no matter what happens and he must be reported in every way.
5. The child should not be left alone with a suspicious person. He should avoid isolated places or sitting alone with untrustworthy people. The child should be in the middle of gatherings if he is away from his parents.
6. The child uses his voice to defend himself and scream or call for help from someone when he feels in danger.
7. Do not share personal information with children online and avoid sending photos or personal information to any stranger.
8. Parents should enhance girls’ self-confidence, make them aware of their rights, and encourage them to speak up without fear when faced with any uncomfortable situation.
Recognizing the signs of abuse
Recognizing the signs of child sexual abuse is critical to early intervention and the ability to provide support to child survivors. Signs may vary, but some of the most common indicators include:
Behavioral changes
Sudden changes in behavior, such as withdrawal from friends, family, and activities, changes in eating habits, nightmares, or bedwetting, can serve as warning signs.
Physical symptoms
Unexplained injuries, pain, or discomfort in the child’s private area
emotional distress
Anxiety, depression, excessive fear of certain places or people, and a sudden loss of self-esteem can also indicate that a child is being abused.
sexual behavior
Knowing that a child is experiencing age-inappropriate sexual behavior or acting in sexually explicit ways can be a sign of exposure to sexual content or experiences.
