Self-Calming Behavior in Children
Reader’s Question
I just wanted to ask you a question about a possible sign of sexual abuse in a child. If the child is often pushing on her private area when sitting and also sometimes rocking back and forth, could this be a sign of possible abuse?
Our Clinical Psychologist’s Reply
You didn’t mention the age of the child but in most cases, the behavior you describe is not related to sexual abuse. Children, especially under the age of six years, often engage in rocking behavior, rubbing their private area, or sucking their fingers. Infants gradually find various body parts and when they do, they often play with them for awhile. When an infant first notices his hand wave by, it’s only a matter of time before he/she has it in their mouth. They also find their toes and later, their pelvic area. Attention to these areas is again, a form of relaxation and self-calming. It’s not a form of sexual excitement and does not suggest sexual molestation or abuse. You’ll notice that children often engage in this behavior with watching television or when otherwise tired or preoccupied.
