Different Forms of Child Sexual Abuse

Child sexual abuse can take many forms—not all of them involve physical contact. What they all have in common is that an adult or older person uses their power to exploit or harm a child in a sexual way. Abuse can happen once or over a long period of time, and it is never the child’s fault.

Here are come common forms:

1. Physical Sexual Contact

   -Touching a child’s private parts (genitals, chest, buttocks)
   -Making a child touch someone else’s private parts
   -Kissing or hugging in a sexual way
   -Penetration (oral, vaginal, or anal) including with objects

2. Non-Contact Abuse

   -Showing a child sexual pictures, videos, or material (pornography)
   -Exposing oneself (flashing) to a child
   -Watching a child in private settings (bathroom, bedroom) without their knowledge
   -Sexual conversations, texts, or messages
   -Asking a child to pose in sexual ways for photos or videos

3. Online Sexual Abuse (Digital Exploitation)

   -Sending or requesting sexual messages or photos
   -Online grooming-building trust with a child through chat or social media with the intent to exploit them
   -Video calls or messages with sexual content

4. Exploitation or Trafficking

   -Using a child in commercial sexual activities (including sex trafficking)
   -Forcing or manipulating a child to perform sexual acts in exchange for money, gifts, or promises.

5. Coercion and Secrecy
   -Threatening, bribes, or manipulating a child to stay silent
   -Telling a child it is their fault or that no one will believe them
   -Making abuse seem like a game, a secret, or something “special” between them

Important to remember:

-The abuser can be anyone—family, friends, caregivers, teachers, religious leaders, or strangers.

-Abuse does not always leave visible signs. It is often hidden behind manipulation and fear.

-If a child discloses abuse, believe them, support them and seek help immediately.