Why is it important for professionals to be alert to behavioral indicators of sexual abuse in individuals, especially children?

• A. Because behavioral indicators are less important than physical symptoms in identifying abuse
• B. Because behavioral indicators are usually unrelated to experiences of abuse
• C. Because behavioral indicators may be the only visible signs of abuse when physical evidence is absent
• D. Because behavioral indicators always confirm that abuse has occurred without the need for further assessment

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that sexual abuse can often leave no visible physical marks, especially in children, making physical symptoms sometimes absent or difficult to detect.
2. Recognize that behavioral indicators, such as changes in mood, anxiety, withdrawal, or inappropriate sexual knowledge, can serve as important clues that abuse may have occurred.
3. Acknowledge that professionals need to be alert to these behavioral signs because they might be the only evidence available to identify abuse early and provide necessary support.
4. Be aware that while behavioral indicators are important, they do not always confirm abuse on their own; further assessment and investigation are required to establish the situation accurately.
5. Therefore, the importance lies in the fact that behavioral indicators can alert professionals to possible abuse cases when physical evidence is missing, enabling timely intervention and protection.