FACSAFOUNDATION.ORG SHATTERING THE SILENCE TOUR DOCUMENTARY PROJECT Volume 2 January 2015 | Page 23

to handle it properly. Child sexual assault happens to children 0-18 years of age;
and most often the perpetrator is a family member, someone the child knows, or an
acquaintance. Sexual abuse can include fondling, touching, and kissing
inappropriately, or pornography with the child. Each instance is just as traumatic as
the other, with lifelong effects and consequences.
• Many children will explore their bodies and this is natural. What is not natural is
when their behavior becomes outside the norm or their behavior seems
inappropriately sexual for their age.
• They may become more aggressive.
• They may burst into tears for no reason.
• They will have nightmares and may demand the light stay on.
• They may start to wet the bed.
• They may inappropriately touch their dolls or action figures during play.
• They may begin to hurt animals.
• They may become shy, withdrawn, have mood swings, or become depressed.
• ^HX^H