Sexual Abuse in Adolescents
Signs and Symptoms

While the assessment of sexual abuse is best conducted by a professional, some of the most common indicators are as follows:

Socio-emotional Signs & Symptoms of Abuse in Adolescents:

• Self-destructive activity or suicidal ideas
• Delinquent behavior and/or running away
• Inability to perform in school
• Mistrust of adults in general
• Disturbed peer interaction
• Unusual sexual behavior
• Poor self-esteem

Physical Signs and Symptoms:

• Frequent, unexplained sore throats
• Genital/urinary irritation/infection
• Regressive behaviors
• Venereal disease
• Bed wetting

To learn more about treatment of this disease/disorder please see the Child & Adolescent Services section.