Frequently Asked Questions About Child Sexual Abuse

What is child sexual abuse?

Any sexual act committed by a person of authority or family member who has temporary permanent care or custody of a child or by any household or family member, regardless of physical injuries.

Examples:

  • Sexual touching of any part of the body
  • Penetrative sex, including mouth
  • Touching of breasts or genitals
  • Attempted intercourse
  • "Consensual" intercourse
  • Encouraging a child to engage in sexual activity, including masturbation
  • Intentionally engaging in sexual activity in front of a child
  • Showing children pornography

How prevalent is child sexual abuse?

Nationally, one in four girls and one in six boys will be sexually abused by the time they're 18. Only about 10% of child sexual abuse is ever reported.

Who are the victims?

Half of child sexual abuse victims are younger than nine. At the Baltimore Child Abuse Center, 38% of children seen are boys. Nearly 40% are younger than seven; 76% are younger than 12.

Who are the abusers?

Ninety percent of abusers are someone the child or family knows. Almost half of child sexual abuse is committed by teenage boys or young adults aged 14 to 30.

How can I prevent sexual abuse?

For a detailed answer, please read Prevention Tips. Here are some key things you can do:

  • Learn the possible signs.
  • Be wary of situations in which children may be alone with an adult or much older child.
  • Teach children to tell you if they aren't comfortable with someone.
  • Talk with them about who they should tell and where they should go if something bad happens.

What are signs that a child has been sexually abused?

For a detailed answer, please read Possible Signs. They include:

  • Extreme clinginess
  • Fear of certain people or places
  • Incorporating sexual subject matter into drawing, writing or play
  • Alluding to a secret between him/herself and an adult or older child

What are the signs of abusers?

For a detailed answer, please read Possible Signs. They include:

  • Insistence on touching or showing child affection even when the child resists
  • High levels of interest in the sexuality of a particular child or teen
  • Requesting uninterrupted time alone with a child
  • Spending significant time with children or much younger teens, along with having little interest in peers or those who are older

 What should I do if I suspect sexual abuse?

  • Listen to the child
  • Try to be calm. Don't let children see how upset you may be.
  • Even if you're not absolutely sure there has been abuse, call for help right away

In Baltimore City, call 911 or 410-361-2235

Outside Baltimore City, report it to the proper authorities by calling 911 or your local department of social services. Click here for a list of numbers