While most people understand that acts such as kissing, fondling, rape and sodomy are all included in the definition of child sexual abuse, there are other elements that are not always visible, especially to the average person, but also fall under the category of child sexual abuse. Here are 3 elements of a person's behavior that will provide you with a better understanding of the offender's behaviors.

Power and Control: Is the offender considerably older than the victim? Is the offender larger in size than the victim? Is the offender more emotionally advanced than the victim? Is the offender in a position of authority over the victim (ie a teacher, preacher, coach, parent, etc)? Offenders have power over their victims whenever they use manipulation, intimidation, coercion, bribary, trickery or force.

Advanced Sexual Knowledge: Does the offender have a highly-developed knowledge of the consequences and dangers associated with the sexually abusive act? Is he more physically and emotionally advanced than his or her victim? Younger children are uncapable of truly comprehending the meaning of the sexual act and therefore they cannot consent to it.

Now that you have a broader understanding of child sexual abuse, you're better equipped to protect your children from those whose behaviors are suspicious.

About The Author

Brenda Hoffman has been delivering holistic health and wellness advice for over 7 years since receiving a BA in psychology. As a home-based professional and mother of 1, she operates a holistic wellness network. She invites you over to http://www.yourhealthyfamilyhome.com/ to learn how to improve you and your family's health.