What Are Symptoms Of Physical And Sexual Abuse In Children?

Posted on Mon, 13 Oct 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 13 Oct 2014 Answered on

Thu, 6 Nov 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I have two step daughters, i suspect they are being molested, we are taking legal action at the moment, we are documenting everything that is unusual in there behaviour. Is there anything else i should absolutely look out for?!

Answered by Dr. Diptanshu Das (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
More details required

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for posting on healthcaremagic. Unfortunately your question is not complete and I would request for a few details.
1. Why you think your step daughters are being molested and by whom? Is it by some family member or outsider?
2. Age of your step daughters.
3. Any definite evidence of psychological trauma at present or in the past.

Please let me know and I will try to help you out. The situation should not be ignored.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj

Follow up: Dr. Diptanshu Das (10 minutes later)

6 and 3 years of age. They are physically abused by there biological mother and step father, the 6 year old told us she has been touched on her privates, she came clear of the name of who is hurting her. We reported everything to police and will be trying to get full custody of girls myself and there biological father. We have noticed Theyve been touching themselves innapropriately on there privates. Behaviour changes, youngest girl has problems going to potty. Constipated for no reason that we can figure out.. There now scared being alone in there bedroom at night when there are with us.. They dont like being in there biological mothers care anymore. They dont call her mom anymore.

Answered by Dr. Diptanshu Das (7 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Assuring behaviour needed

Detailed Answer:
It is really shocking to know the situation. I hope that the Child Protection department will deal with it with strong hands. You have dine the right thing by taking custody. Be sure to take them to a psychologist and a psychiatrist in order to prevent any long standing sequel. You have to assure the children that they can trust you and you would treat them with proper respect.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj