Changes

'''Child molesting''' is the physical or psychological act of harming a minor child by sexual means. The chief characteristic of such abuse is the position of the adult over the child; the dominance of the adult allows that individual to coerce and/or force a child into sexual activity.  The resulting abuse may include contact with the genitals, masturbations, or penetration up to and including rape.  Non-physical contact may include voyuerism or photography for pornographic purposes.<ref>Authors Unknown, [http://www.apa.org/releases/sexabuse/ What is Child Sexual Abuse?], ''American Psychological Association'', 2001. Retrieved April 29, 2007.</ref>  Studies by law enforcement and psychologists indicate that most individuals engaged in child sexual abuse continue to do so regardless of punishment; the effects on the children involved indicate a lifetime scarring.

'''Child molesting''' is the physical or psychological act of harming a minor child by sexual means. The chief characteristic of such abuse is the position of the adult over the child; the dominance of the adult allows that individual to coerce and/or force a child into sexual activity.  The resulting abuse may include contact with the genitals, masturbations, or penetration up to and including rape.  Non-physical contact may include voyuerism or photography for pornographic purposes.<ref>Authors unknown, "[http://www.apa.org/releases/sexabuse/ What is Child Sexual Abuse?]", ''American Psychological Association'', 2001. Retrieved April 29, 2007.</ref>  Studies by law enforcement and psychologists indicate that most individuals engaged in child sexual abuse continue to do so regardless of punishment; the effects on the children involved indicate a lifetime scarring.

==Symptoms on the child==

==Symptoms on the child==

*Sleep disorders, or a return to regressive behaviors like bedwetting and thumb sucking.

*Sleep disorders, or a return to regressive behaviors like bedwetting and thumb sucking.

*Behavior or performance problems at school, and non-participation in social activities.

*Behavior or performance problems at school, and non-participation in social activities.

The strongest indication of sexual abuse of a child is sexual knowledge, interest, or acting out by the child.  Such displays are simply not normal child behavior, and the best way to deal with it is to reassure the child as to his or her self asteem, and give positive family support.<ref>Authors Unknown, "[http://www.apa.org/releases/sexabuse/effects.html What are the Effects of Child Sexual Abuse?], ''American Psychological Association'', 2001. Retrieved April 29, 2007.</ref>

The strongest indication of sexual abuse of a child is sexual knowledge, interest, or acting out by the child.  Such displays are simply not normal child behavior, and the best way to deal with it is to reassure the child as to his or her self asteem, and give positive family support.<ref>Authors unknown, "[http://www.apa.org/releases/sexabuse/effects.html What are the Effects of Child Sexual Abuse?]," ''American Psychological Association'', 2001. Retrieved April 29, 2007.</ref>

==Laws and punishments==

==Laws and punishments==