[hkolln]

Our now 9 yr old niece (who is now our daughter) was sexually abused from most likely birth to age 6. Her sexual abuse was horrific supposedly..the SW even said there would be issues with it. She never acted out with the previous FP's. She has been here with us 1 1/2 yrs and no acting out either. She knows that sex is private and we do know she most likely does masterbate. This is normal for sexually abused kids. We have been told she may become sexually active at an earlier age. She is in therapy and it is helping with other behaviours...however I see no signs of the sexual abuse. I don't believe ALL kids sexually abused act out. I really think it depends upon the child. I wouldn't place a child that has been sexually abused with a younger child just to be safe as a younger child is more vulnerable. Our bio daughter is 5 yrs older and knows what to watch out for. We are pretty open with her about it and she knows if something happens she can come to us.

And she came from what looked like a loving 2 parent home. Her biomom and her are very bonded and close. You can see it during the goodbye visit and all the cards/letters she's mailed her. Just because a child is sexually abused doesn't mean they also are dealing with other abuses. I guess not all cases are the same. And I think the parents tend to show more affection as to keep the child from telling.

But considering what this child has gone thru she's doing great!