CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE FACT SHEET 1

Compiled by Onokemi Onojobi

FAQS
Innocent children are subjected to the horrors of
sexual abuse. This is a sad reality existing in every
society, a reality that needs to be addressed. However,
preventing child sexual abuse (CSA) requires a
comprehensive understanding of its very nature in
order to effectively safeguard children, raise
awareness within the communities, and take decisive
actions to put an end to child sexual abuse.

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What is child sexual abuse?

Child Sexual Abuse(CSA) can be defined as any sexual interaction between a child and an adult or an older child. While child
sexual abuse is often depicted as involving trickery, force, or coercion, it more often occurs under the guise of friendship. It is
essential to recognise that child sexual abuse may not always involve penetration, force, or direct physical contact. Any
situation where an adult or older child engages in any sexual behaviour with a child, which includes looking,
showing, describing, telling, or touching as a means to satisfy the adult’s, or other child’s sexual needs or interests
is CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE.

Who may be vulnerable to experiencing child sexual abuse?

Child Sexual Abuse is a pervasive problem that impacts children across all age groups. It is important to stress that no child
is exempt, irrespective of their age or developmental stage. This distressing issue affects both boys and girls without
discrimination based on socioeconomic background, race, religion or nationality. It is a universal problem that extends beyond
cultural and geographical boundaries, leaving a damaging impact in its path.

How can you tell if a child is being (or has been) sexually abused?

Detecting sexual abuse is not straightforward, the signs can differ based on factors like the child's age, personality, development,
and the specific circumstance of the abuse. Certain children might openly display signs of distress or trauma, while others may
seem unaffected. Some children may reveal their abuse either directly or indirectly, while others may choose to keep it concealed
due to feelings of shame, guilt, blame, or fear of retaliation. In certain situations, signs of CSA may only manifest at home, at
school, or with specific individuals. The followings are signs to look out for::

• Unexplained bruises, or injuries, especially in sensitive areas like the genitals, buttocks, breasts, or inner thighs, mouth or neck,
should raise concern.
• Genital or anal pain, bleeding, swelling, itching, or discharge.
• Difficulty walking, sitting, urinating, or defecating.
• Unexplained stomachaches, headaches, nausea, vomiting, or fatigue.
• Sudden and significant changes in a child's behaviour, such as becoming withdrawn, anxious, or displaying aggressive
outbursts.
• Bedwetting or thumb-sucking that returns after the child has outgrown these behaviours.
• A child showing fear or avoiding a specific person, place, or situation especially if they previously felt comfortable
• Engaging in sexual behaviours or games with peers that are not age-appropriate or mimicking sexual acts with toys or objects.
• A child regressing in developmental milestones, such as losing language skills or social abilities they once had.
• Sudden mood swings or extreme emotional reactions, such as excessive anger, fear, or sadness.
• A child becoming overly secretive about their activities or displaying secretive behaviour with certain individuals.
• Expressing feelings of guilt or shame, particularly when there is no apparent reason for these emotions.
• A significant drop in academic performance without clear explanation.
• Unexplained physical complaints, such as stomach aches or headaches, that have no medicinal cause.
• A child avoiding places or activities they previously enjoyed, without providing a reasonable explanation.
• Frequent nightmares or difficulty sleeping, especially if those disturbances coincide with changes in behaviour.
• Withdrawal from social activities or isolation from friends and peers.
• Producing drawings or writings with sexualised content that is not age-appropriate.
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as gonorrhoea, chlamydia, syphilis, herpes, or HIV.

It is essential to prioritise not only detection but also prevention and communication. This includes teaching children about body
safety and healthy boundaries, fostering an environment that encourages open communication about sexual matters.

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 What are the impacts of child sexual abuse?

Child sexual abuse can have profound and lasting impacts on the victims, affecting them emotionally, psychologically, and
physically. The consequences vary from child to child, but common effects include:

• Emotional Distress: Many survivors of child sexual abuse experience a range of intense emotions, including shame, guilt, fear,
and anger. These emotions can persist into adulthood, influencing the child's self-esteem and ability to form healthy
relationships.
• Mental Health Issues: Child sexual abuse is associated with an increased risk of mental health issues, including depression,
anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and suicidal thoughts. The child may struggle with trust issues and have difficulty
coping with stress.
• Sexual Dysfunction: Some child survivors may face challenges in their adult sexual lives, including confusion with
orientation, aversion, difficulties managing sexual urges, difficulties with intimacy, trust, and establishing healthy boundaries.
Sexual dysfunction, such as pain or discomfort during sex, can also occur.
• Behavioural Changes: Child sexual abuse can lead to changes in behaviour, including regression, self-destructive behaviours,
substance abuse, aggression, or withdrawal from social activities. These behaviours may serve as coping mechanisms or ways
to numb the emotional pain.
• Impact on Relationships: Survivors may encounter challenges in forming and maintaining healthy relationships. Trust issues,
fear of intimacy, and difficulty in establishing boundaries are common difficulties experienced by those who have endured child
sexual abuse.
• Physical Consequences: Child sexual abuse can result in various physical impacts, including genital injuries, the risk of
sexually transmitted infections, gynaecological or urological problems, unwanted pregnancies, psychosomatic symptoms, sleep
disturbances, eating disorders, self-harm, substance abuse, and chronic pain. These physical consequences are often
intertwined with the psychological and emotional effects of the abuse, underscoring the importance of seeking professional
help and support for victims. Additionally, survivors may be at a higher risk of engaging in risky behaviours that can
compromise their physical health.
• Academic and Occupational Challenges: The trauma of child sexual abuse can interfere with a survivor's ability to
concentrate, learn, and achieve in academic and professional settings. This can have long-term implications for their
educational and occupational pursuits.

It's crucial to recognise that each survivor's experience is unique, and the impact of child sexual abuse can be complex and
multifaceted. Professional support and therapeutic interventions are essential for survivors to address and cope with the
consequences of such trauma.

How big is the problem of child sexual abuse?

Child sexual abuse is a pervasive and serious issue that affects a wide range of demographics, leaving lasting impacts on its
victims. The problem is notably challenging due to significant underreporting and a lack of reliable data, making it difficult to
precisely gauge the full extent.

Who sexually molests children?

Child sexual abuse can be perpetrated by individuals from various backgrounds, including family members, acquaintances,
caregivers, teachers, strangers, and unfortunately, even clergy. Perpetrators can be of any age, gender, or socio-economic status.
It's crucial to recognise that child sexual abuse is a complex and sensitive issue, and perpetrators may exploit positions of trust or
authority, including those within religious institutions.

Where do children commonly encounter child sexual abuse?

Child sexual abuse can unfortunately occur in various settings. It may take place within the confines of the home, involving family
members or caregivers. Additionally, abuse can occur in institutions such as schools, religious organisations, or community
groups. Strangers may also perpetrate child sexual abuse, and online environments have become a concerning space for such
incidents.

What are the current gaps in child sexual abuse prevention?

The current gaps in child sexual abuse prevention include challenges in comprehensive education and awareness programs,
inconsistencies in reporting mechanisms, limited resources for support services, and gaps in understanding and addressing online
risks. Additionally, there may be difficulties in ensuring uniform enforcement of preventive measures across different institutions
and sectors. Bridging these gaps requires a concerted effort to enhance education, strengthen reporting systems, allocate
sufficient resources, and adapt prevention strategies to effectively address emerging risks, particularly in the digital space.

If you suspect that a child is a victim of or at risk for any form of sexual molestation, it is imperative
to promptly contact the appropriate authorities. Seek assistance from mental health professionals or
support organisations as well. Prioritising caution is essential in such cases. Your quick and careful
response can make a significant difference in ensuring the safety and well-being of the child.

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 What do I do if I suspect that a child has experienced sexual abuse?

Protecting children from the devastating

effects of Child Sexual Abuse (CSA) is an
essential responsibility that requires a
compassionate and informed response. If you
suspect that a child has been sexually
abused, it is crucial to respond promptly and
appropriately, ensuring the safety and well-
being of the child first.

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The following are steps to respond effectively to such discovery, providing the necessary support and reporting procedures to
protect the victim from further harm and foster a safe environment for them to heal and thrive.

1. Stay Calm and Supportive: 2. Listen Carefully Without Judgement:

• If you suspect child sexual abuse, it's essential to remain
calm and composed. Avoid displaying shock or anger,
as this might cause the child to stop sharing.
• Be supportive and create a safe space where the child
feels comfortable to share their experiences. Assure
them that you are there to listen and help.
• Listen attentively to the child without interrupting or
passing judgement. Give them the time and space to
express themselves openly.
• Avoid asking leading questions that may influence their
responses. Let the child share their experiences in their
own words.

3. Reassure the Child: 4. Take Immediate Action:

• Reassure the child that they have done the right thing
by speaking up. Let them know that it is not their fault
and they are incredibly brave for sharing their feelings.
• Avoid making promises that you cannot keep. Instead,
assure them that you will do everything possible to
ensure their safety and well-being.
• Child safety is paramount. If you suspect child sexual
abuse, do not delay in reporting your concerns to the
appropriate authorities.
• Contact child protective services or the police
immediately. They have the expertise to handle such
situations and can conduct a proper investigation.

5. Preserve Evidence (where applicable):
• If you encounter any physical evidence, such as injuries
or explicit materials, do not tamper with it. Preserve the
evidence and inform the authorities during the
reporting process.
6. Offer Support and Seek Professional Help:
After reporting the abuse, offer ongoing support to the
child. Help the child access the appropriate resources and
services to begin the healing process.

7. Maintain Confidentiality:
Respect the privacy of the child and the investigation
process. Confidentiality is crucial to protect the child's
well-being and the integrity of the investigation.
Prioritising caution in situations of sexual abuse
whether perceived or real is crucial. Your quick
and careful response can make a significant
difference in ensuring the safety and well-being of
the child.
Helplines
• Federal Government of Nigeria Toll Free Number for Violation of Girls and
Women – 0800-727-32255
• Mandatory Reporting of child abuse/Sexual assault of a Minor: 112 or
0813-796-0048
• Child Abuse Help Lines: 0808-575-3932, 0810-267-8442
• CeceYara Foundation; 24 hr toll free child helpline 0800-800-8001,
0700-700-7001
• Mirabel Centre(Lagos) -- 0805-626-8573, 0815-577-0000, 0818-724-3468,
0701-349-1769
• Cee-Hope Nigeria — 0703-203-8897, 0902-784-8807
• Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development (Lagos) —
0905-590-2175
• The Nigeria Police (Lagos) – 0703-216-5181
• Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Team (DVRT) —
0813-976-0048

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