Recognizing and Responding to Problematic Sexual Behaviors in Early Childhood

Vocabulary-style flashcards covering key concepts from the lecture notes on developmental sexual behavior in children, differences between normal and problematic behaviors, response strategies, and prevention resources.

Forensic interview

A structured interview between a child and a trained interviewer used in investigations of suspected child maltreatment.

Zero Abuse Project

A nonprofit organization (501(c)(3)) aiming to end child abuse in three generations by training professionals, providing technical assistance, expert testimony, and more.

Problematic sexual behaviors (PSB)

Sexual behaviors in children that are developmentally inappropriate, unsafe, or excessively preoccupying and may require redirection or reporting.

Developmentally appropriate sexual behaviors

Normal exploratory behaviors in young children that are voluntary, occur between peers with similar development, and can be redirected calmly.

Power differential

A situation where one child is more developmentally advanced or physically capable than another, making a sexual interaction inappropriate.

Privacy in childhood

The growth of boundaries around private parts and private behaviors, including expectations for privacy and when touches occur.

Redirection

Calmly stopping a behavior and guiding the child toward acceptable alternatives or language.

Empower Me!

Zero Abuse Project's prevention curriculum teaching safe/unsafe touches, five safe adults, and how to tell.

Five Safe Trusted Adults

Five adults a child can turn to for safety; having multiple options reduces risk if one is unsafe.

Secrets vs. surprises

A distinction taught to children: secrets can be unsafe; surprises are okay to share; both involve safety discussions.

Uh-oh feeling / gut feeling

A child safety cue indicating something feels wrong and may prompt consulting a trusted adult.

Check first

A rule urging children to verify with the caregiver before going with someone or accepting a new situation.

Polyvictimization

Experiencing multiple forms of maltreatment (e.g., sexual, physical, emotional, neglect) over time.

Protective factors

Supports that buffer the impact of trauma (e.g., emotional support, social skills) and reduce risk.

Initiator

A child who begins or pressures another child into a sexual behavior; not necessarily a predator.

Mandated reporter

A person legally required to report suspected child maltreatment to authorities.

Safe touch vs unsafe touch

Touches that are for care/health and are appropriate vs touches that violate boundaries and are unsafe.

Pornography exposure risk

Access to adult sexual content via devices, which can be accidental or intentional and influence behavior.

Vampire effect

Myth that abuse leads to inevitable reoffending; research shows interventions can reduce risk.

Protective factors in prevention

Conditions and supports that help children cope with trauma and reduce long‑term harm.