🧒 Raising children (tarbiyah) · #58

What are the signs that a child may be sexually abused, and what should be done if it is suspected?

Believe the child, protect them at once, and report it — do not settle it quietly within the family even if the abuser is a relative.
Allah commands us to protect ourselves and our families from ruin (at-Tahrim 66:6), and the Prophet ﷺ forbade every kind of harm (Sunan Ibn Majah 2340). Possible signs: sudden changes in behaviour, fear of particular people or places, sexual knowledge inappropriate for their age, injury or pain in the private parts, nightmares, or bed-wetting again. If the child tells you: listen calmly, do not question them over and over, and say "thank you for telling me, this is not your fault". Go to a hospital and make a police report; call Talian Kasih 15999. The Child Act 2001 (Act 611) gives children protection. If there is danger, call 999. See Domestic violence.

Sources

Surah at-Tahrim 66:6Sunan Ibn Majah 2340 (sahih)Child Act 2001 (Act 611)

← PreviousSiblings are always fighting. When should parents step in?Next →How should the death of a family member be explained to a young child?

Related questions

What are the signs of puberty, and what obligations begin after it?According to the Shafi'i school, puberty is reached by the emission of semen (including a wet dream), the onset of menstruation for…What should be done when a child is newly born?The narrations mention three things on the seventh day. The Prophet ﷺ said: every boy is held in pledge by his ʿaqīqah, so slau…Should a child be sent to a tahfiz school, and what should be checked first?It is not obligatory; it is a good option if it suits the child's interest and ability and the school is safe and…How should children in a polygynous family be raised so that they do not split into factions?By deciding that fairness must be visible in the children's eyes, not merely in the father's reckoning. An-Nahl 16:90 commands jus…Can praising a child too often spoil them? What is the right way to praise?Honest, specific praise builds a child up; excessive, empty praise can make them dependent on praise or conceited.…Should children be given household chores? From what age?Yes; chores suited to their age build responsibility, and the sunnah shows that housework does not lower one's…

This answer is general reference, not a fatwa. For your situation, consult the religious affairs office, a Syarie lawyer or your state Syariah Court.

Comments or feedback

Read only by the MYPolygyny administrator — never published.

About Us · Ask · Site Map · Privacy · Editorial policy · Disclaimer