Practice Areas

Blog

Library

Testimonials

• "I sent this letter certified after receiving the free guide [from] Phillips & Garcia P.C. Saved Foreclosure. Thanks a million!" A.D. from Colorado
• After seeing first hand what you are up against concerning the big banking companies, we are even more amazed that you are willing to fight the fight. The little guy needs your help and your fearless attitude. You are good people and true Americans. We are honored to be called your friends. R.R. - Mich., Lockout & Trashout Victim
• The attorneys were very professional and I felt as though they always had my best interest in mind. Without them I would have been pushed around and just another number to the bank. N.L., Wrongful Lockout Victim
• Thank you Mr. Phillips. If we hadn't found you the [Bank] would have foreclosed on our property and I can't imagine the misery that they would have caused. S.N. - Arizona

View All

Identifying Child Sex Abuse in Massachusetts (Part B)

Signs and Symptoms of Child Sexual Abuse

Identifying CSA can be difficult, especially because it is traumatic and embarrassing to the victim. Child victims in particular are often reluctant to admit to sexual abuse, usually out of fear and confusion. But there are signs that can help you identify when sexual abuse is occurring, such as:

Depression

Young children who suffer from sexual abuse can show visible signs of depression. They may behave despondently, isolate themselves socially, or exhibit strange behavioral disorders. These may include eating or sleeping disorders, which can have serious health effects.

Anxiety/Numbing

Sexually abused children may exhibit behaviors known as anxiety and numbing. In these cases the child may appear to have a genuine fear for their safety, while at other times they may show no signs of feeling or emotion. This is a defensive behavior which victims adopt to protect themselves from danger.

Unusual Sexual Behaviors

Children who are victims of sexual abuse may engage in unusual sexual behavior. This may include excessive masturbation, explicit sexual play (with toys or friends), or asking too many sex-related questions. CSA victims may also become sexually provocative with age, by dressing or talking in ways that may invite further sexual exploitation.

Some other signs of child sexual abuse include:

• Being overly affectionate, or exhibiting sexual knowledge that is unusual for a child of that age
• Regressing to behavior such as bed-wetting, thumb-sucking, or clinginess
• Evidence of physical trauma to a child's genital area
• An unusual fear of certain places or locations
• Engaging in self-mutilation, such as stabbing or cutting of the flesh

What To Do if You Suspect Child Sexual Abuse

If you suspect that a child has been a victim of any form of sexual abuse, it is important that you notify the proper Massachusetts authorities promptly. You should contact social services and notify your local police. Consider seeking trauma counseling for your child and your family as soon as possible, to help him or her work through the complicated emotions that accompany such abuse.

If your child has been abused it would be in your best interest to consult with an experienced Massachusetts personal injury attorney that specializes in child abuse cases. It is important that the lawyer your hire has handled these types of cases before.

The attorneys at Phillips & Garcia will fight for your rights in your child abuse lawsuit. We are committed to protecting your best interests and helping you and your child get the help you need to move on with your lives. If you or someone you know has been a victim of child abuse, contact Phillips & Garcia today to schedule your FREE legal consultation - (877) 892-5620.

Contact Information

Free Book

FAQs