Mother hugging and comforting distressed daughter on the couch

The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) reported that Child Protective Services substantiated or found evidence that 57,329 children were victims of sexual abuse. Two-thirds of these victims were aged 12 to 17 years old, and 82 percent of sexually abused minors were girls. While victims are overwhelmingly female, teenage boys have also experienced high rates of sexual abuse. The #metoo movement has created a discourse where victims are encouraged to break the silence.

If you suspect your teenager was coerced into sexual activity, speak with a Dallas sexual abuse victim lawyer at Crowe Arnold & Majors, LLP. We understand the high emotional stakes for your child and are committed to fighting for the justice they deserve.

Recognizing the Signs of Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse affects teens differently, but the most common signs may include the following:

  • Sudden Behavioral Changes: Teenagers going through puberty are bound to have some changes in their behavior; however, it is a red flag if the change is sudden and severe. For example, an outgoing child may become withdrawn and aloof, or a once-active teen may suddenly avoid sports and other extracurricular activities. Other signs include radical changes in clothing, makeup, or hair.
  • Sexual Knowledge: If a teen displays knowledge about sex that would normally be beyond their age or is engaging in behavior inappropriate for their age, it could be a sign that they have been sexually abused. Adolescents who abuse others may also be mirroring behaviors done to them or behaviors they have witnessed.
  • Sexually transmitted infections (STIs): A common red flag is STIs or other genital infections, as well as other signs of physical abuse such as bruises.

Other indications of teen sexual abuse include failing grades, self-harming behavior, sudden weight gain or loss, and changes in self-care, such as poor hygiene.

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Impact of Sexual Abuse on Teenagers

Experiencing sexual abuse as a teenager can have long-lasting effects, including:

  • Mental Health Issues: Many victims of sexual abuse develop mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance abuse. These issues can last well into adulthood.
  • Low Self-Esteem: Sexual abuse can make teenagers feel ashamed, guilty, and unworthy. Some might blame themselves for the abuse, while others may develop an unhealthy attachment to their abuser and depend on them for validation.
  • Difficulty Forming Healthy Relationships: Teenagers who have experienced sexual abuse may struggle with forming healthy relationships in the future. They may find it challenging to trust others and fear intimacy.
  • Academic Issues: The trauma of sexual abuse can affect a teenager’s ability to concentrate and perform well in school, which can lead to academic struggles and even dropping out.

Legal Rights of Teenage Victims

The Texas State Law Library states that “the offenses listed in Texas Penal Code prohibit engaging in sexual conduct with anyone under 17 or 18 years old, depending on the statute.” It defines a child as “a person younger than 17 years of age” for sexual assault cases. However, if a victim is 14 or older, their consent may be used as an affirmative defense by the perpetrator if they are not more than three years older than the victim.

In addition to criminal charges, victims have the right to file civil lawsuits against the perpetrators for damages such as medical expenses, therapy costs, and pain and suffering. In Texas, victims of sexual assault have up to 30 years from their 18th birthday or the discovery of the abuse to file a civil lawsuit. This is due to House Bill 3809, which went into effect on September 1, 2019.

Supporting Teenage Victims

It is crucial to provide support to teenage victims of sexual abuse. Here are some ways you can help:

  • Listen without judgment. Allow teens to talk about their experiences without judgment or interruption. Assure them it is not their fault and that you believe them.
  • Seek professional help. Encourage teens to seek professional counseling to address any mental health issues resulting from the abuse. It’s also wise to contact sexual assault attorneys for teens for legal guidance.
  • Educate teens about their rights. Make sure teens understand their legal rights and the options available to them to seek justice and hold their abuser accountable.
  • Report it or encourage them to do so. Encourage teens to speak out and report their abuser. This is especially important for teens sexually abused in the workplace. In some cases, you may need to report the case if the teen refuses to do so.

Contact Us for a Free Consultation

A civil lawsuit can be an effective method for teen survivors to move forward in the healing process, expose their abusers, and make them pay compensatory damages for the harm they have inflicted. Get the thoughtful guidance you need from a Dallas teen sexual abuse lawyer who respects your privacy and leverages their skill and experience to get results.

We do everything in our power to thoroughly collect evidence, build a solid case, and defend the rights of our clients and their families. If you or a loved one is a sexual assault victim in Dallas, we want to speak with you. Schedule a free consultation today.