Just a quick refresher about the difference between typical behaviors and sexualized behaviors. Your intuition will help you know the difference and remember, if you suspect abuse, you need to report it!
GENERAL COMMON BEHAVIORS
- Bodies
- Touch
- Games
- Gender identification
- Self stimulation/masturbation
TYPICAL & HEALTHY – “Sex Play”
- Spontaneous
- Mutual
- Good humored
- Good good friends
- Same age, size, developmental level
SEXUALIZED BEHAVIOR – When to really worry
- Adult-like
- Causes adult concern
- Learned
- Recurring
- Involves others
- Screening off/Sneaking (Doesn’t mean sexual abuse has occurred)
THE CHECKLIST – Remember to stay calm as you assess the situation.
- Spontaneous?
- Mutual?
- Good Humored?
- Good Friends?
- Adult-like?
- Adult concern?
