It is considered s e x ual abuse when...?

Question

When an 8 year old boy initiates s e xual contact with his 3 year old stepsister, like touching private parts?

And this continues for several years? Is ths s e xual abuse?

Answer 1

Expect to hear some fiery responses to this question as it is a sensative and very touchy subject.

From my psychological training, it is abuse if the child does not like it. Also, whilst some children do behave in a disturbing manner, they aren't usually held responsible. Adults are!!

I don't really think it is considered abuse as such, as most children do experiment with other children - this is fairly normal when it comes to bodies and pleasant feelings. However I am unsure of just how long this has been going on..

It is advised to not 'shame' the boy, but he does need talking to appropriately about it. And the little girl needs support.

Generally speaking, again, I think it would be classed as inappropriate if one of the children does not like it, but again usually children are curious about their private parts. Also classed as abuse once a child is around 15 onwards..

I don't think it is such a right or wrong thing, yet, it does depend on the individual child.

I have studied sexuality and perpetration to some degree, however after reading your responses, if you still feel uneasy about the situation then I would suggest you speak with a professional about the specific situation.

The only real advice I could give would be to not shame or make the 8 year old feel uncomfortable. And another factor, although quite awful is whether he has been touched or messed around by an adult, therefore he may be 'acting' out what was / is being done to him. If this resonates with you, then I definately suggest speaking with a professional.

All the best.

Answer 2

if you want to get technical it is a form of sexual abuse it seems that maybe he has been brought up around this sort of behavior it is an issue and should be dealt with accordingly and gently. and if at all possible someone who he trusts should try to explain to him that it is wrong but if he knows it is wrong and continues to act in that manor than there is a more serious issue to be dealt with and should be immediately.

Answer 3

YES!!!
That is despicable...
I also believe that the parents are also to blame. How on earth was this able to go on for SEVERAL YEARS???

Answer 4

yes,yes,yes. once or twice, maybe it's curiosity, more than that, that 8 year old child needs a professional involved.

Answer 5

it needs to be treated as sexual abuse Yes

Answer 6

yes because from the sounds of it she seems uncomfortable and it's disgusting