How to Respond to Inappropriate Sexual Behavior of a Child or TeenIf you become aware of any "Uncommon" inappropriate sexual behavior of a child or teen, stop and think, before you react. Your initial response, when you first notice or become aware of your child's behavior, is vital as it sets the foundation to ongoing communication and relationship between you and your child, and the potential for successful treatment. Keeping calm, is the key.
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To help in keeping yourself calm however, as a parent or caregiver, if you become aware or find a child or teen behaving in a sexual way that is concerning, you must first accept and understand how it will make you think and feel. The following thoughts and feelings are common among a parent or caregiver, but remember in the best interest of the child or teen, it is how you respond, not react, that will provide the best benefit.
You might think:
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You might feel:
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What To doIf you learn of or observe the child behaving sexually in an inappropriate "Uncommon" manner:
If you find a child engaging in these behaviors, calmly ask them to stop (get dressed, etc.), then calmly:
Discretely, document the behavior by writing down (never use this information as punishment)
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What Not to doAs a parent or caregiver, when you notice sexual behaviors in a child or teen, it sometimes is not easy to stop and observe what is happening and can make one react in a negative way. The following are what to not do:
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Now What? If you feel that the child or teen is in danger, call "911". Otherwise, if you are:
- A parent or caregiver and this is your child, talk with your pediatrician or call Stop It Now at 1-888-773-8368
- If you are a babysitter or if you know of such behavior in a child, call Stop It Now at 1-888-773-8368