Up to half of sexual crime in the UK is carried out by children and young people. There is a range of sexual behaviour expected for a child’s age and stage of development. The terms ‘harmful sexual behaviour’ and ‘peer on peer sexual abuse’ are used when children’s behaviour goes past that, which can harm themselves or other people.
We can help you understand how to prevent harmful sexual behaviour, how to recognise when behaviour needs to be addressed and what you should do if you have concerns about a child’s sexual behaviour.
What is harmful sexual behaviour?
Children and young people are most likely to be at risk of sexual abuse within their family and community.
Your child has sexually harmed another child
Discovering your child has carried out harmful sexual behaviour can be extremely difficult to comprehend.
Sibling sexual abuse
Most child sexual abuse takes place within the family home. The most common form of child sexual abuse within families is thought to involve child siblings.
If your child gets into trouble for online behaviour
The internet and technology are key parts of everyday life. There are many positives for everyone, including young people, but there are also risks.
Is a child’s sexual behaviour age appropriate
We can help you understand whether a child’s sexual behaviour is expected for their age, or if it could harm them or other people.
Understanding the sexual behaviour of teenagers
Help you understand the difference between expected teenage sexual exploration and behaviour that can harm others or themselves.
