CHURCH BOARD GUIDE TO A CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE PREVENTION POLICY


of negative symptoms in the aftermath of abuse. Abuse can result in abnormal fears, post traumatic stress disorder (PSTD), aggressive behavior, sexual acting out, depression, diffused sexual identity, and poor self-esteem. The degree of damage depends on several factors including the


intensity, duration, and frequency of the abuse. In addition, if the abuser is a known and trusted authority figure in the child’s life, the degree of impact increases dramatically. When church leaders, pastors, and respected congregational members perpetrate the abuse, damage to the victim’s spiritual life and deep feelings of anger toward God and the church are often profound and long term.


Signs of molestation and abuse Church workers and staff should be alert to the physical signs of abuse and molestation, as well as the behavioral and verbal signs that victims may exhibit. Physical signs may include: lacerations and bruises; nightmares;


irritation, pain, or injury to the genital area; difficulty with urina- tion; discomfort when sitting; torn or bloody underclothing; venereal disease. Behavioral signs may include: anxiety when approaching the church; nervous or hostile behavior toward adults; sexual self-consciousness;


“acting out” of sexual behavior; withdrawal from church activities and friends.


Verbal signs may include the following statements: “I don’t like [a particular church worker].” “[A church worker] does things to me when we’re alone.” “I don’t like to be alone with [a church worker].” “[A church worker] fooled around with me.”


The Behavioral Profile of a Child Molester


Too often, stereotypes of a child molester prevent church leaders from seeing the potential risk in their churches. Church leaders can become


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