Long Island, Manhattan Accident Attorney Blog

Child Sexual Abuse Takes a Toll on the Victims

Child molestation is an insidious crime that affects young victims for years.  Some victims experience severe emotional effects for the rest of their lives.

Children who are victims of abuse can develop sexually transmitted diseases, feelings of hopelessness, suicidal thoughts and trouble handling other areas of their lives, such as schoolwork.  In addition to the immediate physical and emotional toll that molestation has on a child, it is difficult to determine the extent of emotional damage that will follow them over the years.  There is no way of knowing what the long-term effects will be on the children’s bodies and minds.

Some children do not exhibit any outward signs of physical or mental abuse.  One clinical social worker who is employed at a children’s hospital said that these children do not necessarily appear sad or pathetic.  In fact, they look fine.

Victims of child sexual abuse often suffer emotional trauma, which can lead to severe depression, substance abuse suicidal tendencies, uncontrollable anger and other types of abusive behavior.

Perpetrators of child abuse can be held accountable for their actions.  If your child has been the victim of abuse, contact the law firm of Rappaport, Glass, Greene and Levine at 800.734.9445 or 212.921.5200.

Parents Need to Recognize the Warning Signs of Child Abuse

Childhood should be a carefree time – a time to play and learn.  However, for many children it is a dark and scary time in their lives, as they find themselves victims of child abuse.  As a parent, you need to be aware of the warning signs of child abuse and molestation, so that you can protect your child.

Child abuse is often difficult to recognize, as many abusers are good at hiding the evidence and manipulating the child.  Abusers are often those who are closest to the family and may include priests, caregivers, teachers, coaches and relatives.  These are people your family has trusted and they should be held accountable for their horrific actions against your child.

According to the Child Welfare Information Gateway, the first step in helping an abused child is to recognize the signs of child abuse.  It is important to note that one sign does not necessarily mean your child is being abused, so you need to evaluate the entire situation.

Warning signs of physical abuse of a child include unexplained injuries, such as burns, broken bones, bites, bruises and black eyes.  If your child is the victim of physical abuse he or she may also cry around a certain adult or make comments regarding injuries caused by an adult.

The signs of molestation or sexual abuse are a little different than physical abuse.  A child who is being molested may have trouble walking or sitting, wet the bed, experience a change in appetite, refuse to participate in physical activities, have nightmares or run away from home.  If a child has an unusual or advanced knowledge of sexual activities, it can also be an indication of sexual abuse.

If you discover that your child has been abused, you can go after the abuser for compensation for pain and suffering and other emotional scars.  Contact Rappaport, Glass, Greene & Levine for expert legal advice at (800) 734-9445.

The article, “Know the Signs of Child Abuse,” has more information on this topic.