What Does Child Sexual Assault Look Like?

By Catie Ward

As April approaches, we are also approaching sexual assault awareness month. Sexual assault is something that both girls and boys experience. Statistics from the Department of Justice say that one in nine girls and one in 53 boys under 18 may experience sexual abuse by an adult. Sexual abuse cases typically take place in adult-child relationships and in most cases, the perpetrator is known by the child. 93% of child sexual abusers are usually known by the child they abuse. Abusers can include family, friends, babysitters, neighbors, and teachers. Abuse by strangers only accounts for 7% of cases. Sexual assault can occur in many different forms, and it is not always obvious. It can happen through physical acts or acts that do not involve physical contact.  

Physical acts:  

• Fondling, touching, or kissing sensitive parts of a child or forcing them to reciprocate that onto the abuser 

• Sexual Intercourse 

• Inserting fingers, objects, or tongue into a child’s sensitive area 

Non-physical sexual acts:  

• Posing a child in a provocative or sexual way to take photos or videos  

• Showing pornography to a child through direct messages to a child or through social media  

• Talking to a child about sex in inappropriate ways 

• An adult exposing their genitals in front of a child 

 To anyone affected, you are not alone, and your story matters. Awareness leads to action, and action leads to change. By standing with survivors, speaking out against harm, and educating ourselves and others we create a world where respect and safety are the standard- not the exception. If you or someone you know has/is experiencing sexual abuse, please use our 24/7 hot line to reach out or tell a trusted adult.  

Safe Haven Hotline: 419-289-8085 

Safe Haven Text line: 419-517-2535