I have a 8yr old who was sexually abused by her father. I thought she had lost her memories but she told her therapist about it a week ago. My problem is she has been masturbating constantly and after she takes a bath. This is a sensitive subject and I was wondering how you would handle it. I don't want her to feel its a bad thing but I am concerned because she is using objects that could be dangerous. She has a lot of mental problems and she is very stubborn. I told her how dangerous objects are. what would you do?
2006-12-16 06:05:48 · 5 answers · asked by tambam 3 in Social Science ➔ Psychology
Make sure you continue with her therapy. It is very important that you follow through on all suggestions that the therapist makes. Good luck to you. I hope her dad is in jail.
2006-12-16 06:14:37 · answer #1 · answered by robee 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The masturbation part is normal for the most part, a lot of young children find it to be very pleasurable. The dangerous objects thing isn't so great. I suppose you could try talking to her, tell her that it's okay for her to be having these feelings, and that other people have them too, just try to be as open and accepting as possible. Just make it clear that there are safe ways to have fun, and not so safe ways. As long as she knows its a private thing, and that she must be careful with what she does, it isn't all bad. Some kids start playing with themselves when they are three and watching sesame street. They don't necessarily think about sexual things, in fact probably do not, but the nerves and feelings are still there. With your daughters history it would be best to not make her feel bad about these feelings, just try your best to keep her safe. I know she's only eight, and this would be incredibly uncomfortable, but you could try to suggest some not so dangerous ways of pursuing personal satisfaction.
2006-12-16 14:13:20 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
A lot of children masturbate, but I would discourage the use of objects. Besides talking to her about it, probably the best thing you could do is keep them away from her as much as possible, although it's tough. Talking to her therapist will help, too.
2006-12-16 18:38:57 · answer #3 · answered by Katherine W 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's good that you are getting her help, maybe you should ask her therapist.
2006-12-16 14:13:58 · answer #4 · answered by pastor_fuzz_1 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Good luck!
2006-12-16 14:08:09 · answer #5 · answered by Abby O'Normal 6 · 1⤊ 1⤋