Helping teens deal with trauma in care

For caregivers and social care professionals, understanding the signs of sexual abuse can be crucial in identifying and intervening in such cases. While this topic is difficult to discuss, it is essential to empower ourselves with knowledge to protect the young people in our care.

Sexual abuse occurs when a person is manipulated, coerced, or forced into unwanted sexual activity. It can happen to anyone, regardless of gender, socioeconomic status, or background. Teens often face unique challenges, as they may not fully understand what constitutes abuse, may feel shame, or may be reluctant to disclose their experiences.

There are two types of sexual abuse – contact and non-contact abuse

Contact abuse

Contact abuse involves activities where an abuser makes physical contact with a child or forces the child to make physical contact with someone else.  Forms of contact abuse include but are not limited to:

• forcing a child to take part in sexual activities
• sexual touching of any part of a child’s body, whether they’re clothed or not
• using a body part or object to rape or penetrate a child
• making a child undress or touch someone else

Non-contact abuse

Non-contact abuse is when a child is abused without being touched by the abuser. Forms of non-contact abuse include but are not limited to:

• exposing or flashing
• forcing a child to take part in sexual activities online
• forcing a child to strip or masturbate
• engaging in sexual activity in front of a child
• showing pornography

Teens often do not talk about sexual abuse because they are ashamed or afraid, or even might care about their abuser. 

Caregivers should look for signs and indicators of assault including:

• unexplained gifts, and money
• seeing they are easily startled when you come behind them
• reluctance to be alone with a certain person
• unexplained physical pain
• poor academic performance
• withdrawing from friends and activities
• low self-esteem
• emotional outbursts
• suicidal thoughts or self-harming tendencies
• change of body perception
• regression to previously outgrown behaviours
• abnormal sexual behaviours or knowledge of advanced sexual behaviours
• overly compliant behaviour
• eating disorders
• sexually transmitted diseases
• being secretive
• having lots of new phone numbers, texts, or messages

Studies have also found that many teen victims have tendencies towards illegal behaviour, substance use, and criminal behaviour like prostitution.

Long-term signs of sexual abuse in teens

While the signs of sexual abuse in teenage girls and boys may overlap, there can be notable differences in the long-term effects of the abuse.

Signs of Sexual Abuse in Teenage Boys

Boys who have experienced sexual abuse might struggle with feelings of diminished masculinity. They may also face shame and confusion regarding their sexual orientation, particularly since many (though not all) abusers of male teens are male. Additionally, survivors of abuse may experience self-blame, embarrassment, and guilt, especially if they are unable to control physiological responses like erections or ejaculation during the abuse.

Signs of Sexual Abuse in Teenage Girls

Girls who are victims of sexual abuse may also internalise blame for the abuse, often because the abuser instills this belief in them. They are at increased risk of developing depression or PTSD. Additionally, teenage girls may be more susceptible to re-victimisation, whether by the same abuser or in other harmful situations later in adulthood.

Sexual abuse often occurs alongside other types of abuse, including emotional abuse, physical abuse, and neglect. As a result, its impact may be more extensive and depends on the specific circumstances of the abuse. The harm caused by sexual abuse tends to be more severe when a family member is involved, when intercourse or attempted intercourse takes place, or when threats or force are used. 

If you suspect a teen is being sexually abused, it is essential to handle the situation with sensitivity. Breaching the topic is a personal decision that should be based on your relationship with your teen. Let them know you are a trusted adult they can turn to without fear of judgment or reprisal. Give them the chance to raise the topic. In some cases, using a news report or a movie could help start the conversation and the teen to open up.

If a teen chooses to disclose abuse, listen calmly and validate their feelings. Avoid pressuring them for details or showing visible anger, as this could discourage further communication. Make sure they know they’ve done the right thing by telling you, tell them what you will do next.

You should also contact child protection services or local authorities immediately. In the UK, you can reach out to organisations like the NSPCC or call 999 in emergencies. Professionals, such as teachers and social care workers, are also mandated reporters in many cases.

Encourage the teen to work with a counselor or therapist trained in trauma recovery. Support networks, such as charities and helplines, can also provide guidance for both the victim and their family.

Prevention is equally important. Teach teens about healthy boundaries and consent from an early age. Open discussions about relationships, peer pressure, and online safety can help them identify and resist potentially harmful situations. Additionally, staying involved in their lives and monitoring changes in behaviour can help you catch early warning signs.

As a carer you can help the teen develop healthy self-esteem, as a low self-esteem can be a factor that makes someone more vulnerable. Improve your relationship with the teen every day and establish good communication with them: it’s important that they feel they can confide in you without feeling judged.

No one wants to think of their teen or any young person experiencing sexual abuse, but vigilance and education are vital tools in preventing and addressing it. By staying informed, being proactive, and fostering trust, we can create a safer environment for teens and ensure they have the support they need to thrive.

At JM Workforce, we recognise the unique challenges faced by residential care homes. We are dedicated to providing professional, and compassionate staff.  

Our staff are not only highly trained and experienced but also specifically equipped to address the complexities of family dynamics in care settings. Equipped with professionalism and empathy, our trained professionals can handle even the most challenging incidents.

We work closely with you to understand your needs and ensure the right professionals are placed in your care home. Whether you need short-term coverage or long-term support, JM Workforce provides quality staff ready to support your team and the families in your care.

With JM Workforce, you won’t have to face staffing challenges alone. Let us help you maintain a safe, supportive, environment while ensuring the highest standards of care for the young people you serve.