Act as a role model of appropriate behavior to reverse the effect on the child of the abuser-as-role-model.Reinforce those clearly-established boundaries in a consistent manner. Set clear boundaries so that the child or teenager cannot be confused about what is or isn’t acceptable to you about how they speak and behave.Still explain why their speech or actions are unacceptable to you and set limits ( i.e.,take away their cell phone for an hour) and do what you say you’re going to do. Avoid harsh discipline to inappropriately-sexualized speech and activities.Make sure the child knows you care about them through your words and actions.Boost their self-esteem through positive feedback about their achievements and accomplishments.That re-learning will take time, and the child in your care needs to receive that knowledge through the following: In other words, the child needs to learn what is acceptable and not acceptable behavior toward self and other people, perhaps for a second time. The sexually abused child in your care needs to un-learn the lessons taught by the abuser as to what is appropriate sexual behavior – since inappropriate behavior is what the child has internalized. How to cope with a child or teenager who is hypo- or hyper-sexualized Speaking to a licensed therapist or doctor is recommended. It is often difficult to discuss over-sexualizing trauma, and hyper-sexualization and hypo-sexualization manifest in people differently over time. Since sexual abuse typically has more to do with power over the victim than sexual pleasure, victims of sexual abuse often experience heightened feelings of powerlessness and a strong need to overcome these feelings. Hypo-sexualization includes low self-esteem about appearance or their body, a strong desire not to be touched, a fear of undress (such as in a locker room or beach), and never engaging in any sexual activity, including hugs or kissing even into adulthood.Hyper-sexualization includes inappropriate verbal comments, wearing inappropriately revealing clothing, increased sexual behavior, masturbation, and pornography consumption. ![]() ![]() For example, a teenage girl may be unable to experience sexual arousal but still engage in intercourse with numerous peers. A teenage boy may not be able to experience arousal but perpetrates sexually abusive behavior on others despite the lack of any sexual feeling experienced. Sexually abused youth can also exhibit both signs of hyper- and hypo-sexualization. Teenagers who are sexual abuse victims often exhibit signs of PTSD through persistent depression, anxiety, and acts of self-harm such as cutting themselves or attempting suicide.
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