Sexual Inviolability

According to the definition in Article 25 of the Constitution of the Republic of Belarus, every person is guaranteed the protection of their rights and freedoms, including the right to sexual freedom and sexual inviolability.

Sexual freedom is the freedom of a person's sexual self-determination, specifically the right to independently and without coercion choose partners and the form of intimate relationships.

Sexual inviolability is legal protection from sexual assault, a complete prohibition of sexual acts against another person. This concept applies only to persons under 16 years of age (Article 168 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Belarus), as engaging in sexual relations before the age of 16 is a crime!

Since the beginning of 2021, 500 children in Belarus have suffered from sexual violence. Compared to 2020, the number of such atrocities increased by 52%, which greatly concerned all prevention entities.

Before the age of 16, a child's psyche and body are not ready for sex. And he/she cannot give informed consent, as they do not yet fully understand what they are agreeing to.

The age of sexual consent is the age from which a person is considered capable of giving clear informed consent to sex with another person. The age of sexual consent in the Republic of Belarus begins when a person reaches 16 years of age (according to the Criminal Code of the Republic of Belarus).

Reaching the age of 16 is also not a reason to start a sexual life. After all, we are all different, and yes, some are ready at 16, while others are not ready even at 18-20. And it is normal to listen to yourself, rather than follow friends and society.

Sex is about consent, voluntariness, respect for the partner and his/her desires, safety, and equality. Sex implies the ability of everyone to say "NO" at any time. Everything else is violence and coercion!

Crimes against sexual inviolability and sexual freedom of an individual include: rape, violent acts of a sexual nature, sexual intercourse and other acts of a sexual nature with a person under the age of sixteen, lewd acts, coercion to acts of a sexual nature, etc.

In accordance with Article 168 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Belarus, an adult (from 18 years of age) will be held legally responsible for any sexual contact with persons under 16 years of age. Even for sexual relations by mutual consent!!!

Criminal liability for "Crimes against sexual inviolability and sexual freedom" begins at 14 years of age.

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Criminal schemes for involving teenagers in sexual exploitation

• Involvement through infatuation. There are recruiters specializing in this. Recruitment occurs as follows: the recruiter enters into a romantic relationship with an underage girl or boy and after some time asks for financial help, as he suddenly allegedly has serious problems. The teenager is ready to do anything for him, and the recruiter manages to convince them that the only way to earn the necessary amount is through prostitution.
• Recruitment of adults through the modeling business. Currently, there are many modeling agencies and schools where teenagers work as models. These agencies promise employment, participation in fashion shows and photo shoots, which is not always fulfilled, and sometimes serves as a means of involvement in human trafficking for sexual exploitation. Some agencies offer future models work abroad, which can become a form of their export abroad for sexual exploitation. Recruiters may look for "models" in small towns and villages. As a rule, the organizer offers the children themselves or their parents the opportunity for high earnings for the child in a big city and some amount as an advance. Online recruitment is common: for example, a child may receive a personal message on a social network or in a messenger with a job offer.

Children are the most vulnerable victims of crimes against sexual inviolability.

Corruption, early sexual intercourse, and sexual abuse entail serious social and psychological problems, not to mention the harm to the physical and mental health of a developing organism. Family well-being, lectures in schools on sex education, and restricted access to harmful information resources cannot be 100% guarantees that your child will not fall into undesirable statistics.

It is not enough to raise a child chastely, to give them knowledge and skills of safe behavior; it is necessary to establish the most trusting relationship with them so that in such a situation they are not left alone with their problem and are protected in time.

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A victim of sexual violence can be a person of any age and gender!

Perpetrators of sexual violence against children can be very diverse:

• they can be strangers or casually acquainted people, as well as close relatives, family friends, neighbors, and teachers, often enjoying the trust of the community in which they live or work;
• contrary to popular stereotypes, such crimes are committed not only by men but also by women, not only by adults but also by children;
• calling all criminals pedophiles is incorrect;
• sexual violence is committed by people with and without sexual preference disorders;
• some crimes are carefully planned, while others are committed spontaneously, for example, under the influence of alcohol or drugs;
• many criminals do not commit violence suddenly; social norms and internal barriers prohibiting contact with children can stop them. This means that psychotherapeutic services for people experiencing sexual attraction to children are a promising area of prevention;
• in cases of sexual exploitation of children in prostitution or the production of photo or video materials, the main motivation for organizers is to obtain material gain.

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If you are a teenager and have been subjected to acts against sexual inviolability, you must:

• Don't be afraid!!! You are not to blame for anything!!!
• Don't be silent!! Talk about the violence you experience or observe!!!
• Tell your parents or adults you trust what happened.
• Contact a medical institution for medical and psychological assistance (regardless of the type of violence committed against you: physical or sexual)!
• Contact the police independently or with the support of adults or parents.

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ASSISTANCE TO CHILDREN AFFECTED BY VIOLENCE AND ABUSE, AS WELL AS CHILDREN WHO ARE WITNESSES TO VIOLENCE

HOTLINE FOR VICTIMS OF VIOLENCE
+375 29 610 – 83 – 55
24/7/anonymous/free

Children's Helpline
8 (801) 100 – 16-11

Emergency Psychological Support Helpline for Children and Adolescents
8-017-246-03-03
24/7/anonymous/free from landline

MIA Direct Hotline for Reporting Family Distress and Violence Against Children
8-017-372-73-87
24/7/anonymous/free from landline

ONLINE CONSULTATION

Information, psychological, and legal support for children affected by online violence, as well as for parents and other witnesses

• WWW.KIDS.POMOGUT.BY

Changes in behavior:

Changes in a child's expression of sexuality:

1. extreme interest in games with sexual content;
2. knowledge of sexual life astonishing for their age;
3. seductive, particularly alluring behavior towards the opposite sex and adults;
4. sexual acts with other children (starting from primary school age);
5. unusual sexual activity: sexual use of younger children; masturbation (starting from preschool age), rubbing genitals against an adult's body.

Changes in a child's emotional state and communication:

1. withdrawal, isolation, introspection;
2. depressiveness, sad mood;
3. disgust, shame, guilt, distrust, feeling of being spoiled;
4. frequent pensiveness, detachment (occurs in children and adolescents, starting from preschool age);
5. hysterical behavior, rapid loss of self-control;
6. difficulties in communicating with peers, avoiding communication with them, lack of friends of their age or refusal to communicate with former friends;
7. alienation from siblings;
8. terrorizing younger children and children of their age;
9. cruelty towards toys (in younger children);
10. ambivalent feelings towards adults (starting from primary school age).

Changes in a child's personality and motivation, social signs:

1. inability to defend themselves, non-resistance to violence and bullying, resignation;
2. sharp change in academic performance (worse or much better);
3. absenteeism from school, refusal and avoidance of learning, attending additional education institutions, sports sections;
4. assuming a parental role in the family (cooking, washing, cleaning, caring for younger children and raising them);
5. denial of family traditions due to undeveloped social roles and their role in the family, up to leaving home (characteristic of adolescents).

Changes in a child's self-awareness:

1. drop in self-esteem;
2. thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts. Appearance of neurotic and psychosomatic symptoms;
3. fear of being alone in a room with a certain person;
4. fear of undressing (for example, may categorically refuse to participate in physical education or swimming classes, or to remove underwear — panties during a medical examination).

Of course, if you identify any of these signs in a child, you should not immediately suspect abuse, but if they are present in combination, such a child should be paid attention to and delicately asked about what is happening in their life. If your fears are confirmed, it is necessary to immediately report the crime to the internal affairs bodies, and the child should be provided with professional psychological, medical, and other assistance.

If help is not provided in time, the child remains alone with their problem. Psychological traumas of childhood have a strong influence on a person's entire subsequent life, the formation of their character, future sexual life, mental and physical health, and adaptation in society as a whole.

• Recruitment through infatuation. There are recruiters specializing in this. Recruitment occurs as follows: the recruiter enters into a romantic relationship with an underage girl or boy and, after some time, asks for financial assistance, as they suddenly allegedly face serious problems. The teenager is willing to do anything for them, and the recruiter manages to convince them that the only way to earn the necessary amount is through prostitution.
• Recruitment of adults through the modeling business. Currently, there are many modeling agencies and schools where teenagers work as models. These agencies promise employment, participation in fashion shows and photo shoots, which is not always fulfilled, and sometimes serves as a means of involvement in human trafficking for sexual exploitation. Some agencies offer future models work abroad, which can become a form of their trafficking abroad for sexual exploitation. Recruiters can search for "models" in small towns and villages. As a rule, the organizer offers the children themselves or their parents the opportunity for high earnings for the child in a big city and a certain amount as an advance. Online recruitment is common: for example, a child may receive a private message on a social network or in a messenger with a job offer.

Children are the most vulnerable victims of crimes against sexual integrity.

Corruption, early sexual intercourse, and sexual abuse entail serious social and psychological problems, not to mention the harm to the physical and mental health of a developing organism. Family well-being, lectures in schools on sex education, and restricting access to harmful information resources cannot be 100% guarantees that your child will not fall into undesirable statistics.

It is not enough to raise a child to be chaste, to provide knowledge and skills for safe behavior; it is necessary to establish the most trusting relationship with them so that in such a situation they do not remain alone with their problem and are protected in time.

The Rule of Five "Don'ts!":

• Don't talk to strangers or let them into your apartment.
• Don't enter an elevator or building entrance with a stranger.
• Don't get into a car with strangers.
• Don't accept gifts or treats from strangers or agree to their offer to go with them, even if it's very interesting.
• Don't linger on the street after school, especially after dark.
• But what if a stranger just asks for directions or to carry a bag, or to walk them to a store? Still say "No!".

Explain how to find the street, and under no circumstances give in to persuasion to accompany them. And even if a stranger says they are a friend of your parents whom they sent to you, you should say that your parents didn't warn you, and under no circumstances should you go anywhere with them.

But what if an adult is very persistent?

If they tell you: "I thought you were already grown up, but it turns out your mom doesn't let you!"

The answer is one – "NO!". When you get home, you must tell adults about this person.

Rules of conduct in your own home (your apartment):

• Don't let a stranger into your apartment.
• If a plumber or electrician comes without being called, and no adults are home, call them first. Don't let them in until your parents or another familiar adult arrives. Even if the power suddenly goes out or a pipe bursts, it's better to call your parents and find out what to do. In an extreme case, you can ask well-known neighbors.
• When the postman brings a package, telegram, or bill, they need to be signed for. Only adults can do this.
• Be careful when leaving the apartment.
• Before leaving the apartment, look through the peephole. If there are strangers on the landing, wait until they leave.
• Even if you are leaving the apartment for a very short time, always lock the door.
• Be careful when entering the apartment.
• Before opening the door with a key, make sure no one is nearby.
• If, returning home, you feel that you are being followed, do not enter the house, but return to a crowded place and call your parents to meet you, or ask for help.

Rules of conduct in the building entrance

• Before entering the building entrance, pay attention to whether anyone is following you.
• If you notice someone following you, do not approach the entrance, but walk around outside for a bit. If the stranger continues to follow, call your parents or tell any adult you meet about them.
• If the building has an intercom, dial your apartment number and ask your parents to meet you.
• If a stranger is already in the building entrance, immediately go outside and wait until a familiar adult resident of the building enters.
• Do not go out onto the stairs late at night. It's better to take out the trash in the morning.
• In case of a sudden attack, assess the situation and, if possible, run away or defend yourself by any means.

Rules of conduct in the elevator

• Before entering the elevator, make sure there is no stranger on the landing who might follow you in.
• If there is already an unfamiliar person in the summoned elevator, do not enter the cabin.
• If a stranger does enter the elevator after you, turn to face them and observe their actions.
• If you feel danger, press the button for the nearest floor.
• If the elevator doors open, rush out onto the landing and call out to the residents of the building.
• Once safe, immediately call the police, report what happened, the exact address, as well as the attacker's description and the direction they went.
• If you still couldn't escape, you need to act according to the circumstances: if the assailant covers your mouth and removes your clothes, do not threaten to tell your parents or the police, do not cry, remain calm, try to engage the assailant in conversation; if the assailant presses you against them, do not push them away, hug them and bite their nose or lip hard; if you can, defend yourself by any means, if an opportunity to run presents itself, do not gather your belongings, run away as you are.

Rules of conduct on the street

• When walking along the road, choose a route so that you are walking towards oncoming traffic.
• If you have to walk alone in the evening, walk quickly and confidently and do not show fear; you can approach a woman who inspires trust, or an elderly couple, and walk alongside them.
• On a bus, trolleybus, or tram, sit closer to the driver and exit at the last moment, without showing in advance that the next stop is yours.
• Do not hitchhike and do not respond to an offer or request from a stranger or casual acquaintance to give you a ride.
• Under no circumstances get into a car to show the way.
• Do not go to remote and deserted places.
• In the dark, walk on the street with a group of people who got off the bus at the same stop as you.
• If you see a suspicious group of people or a drunk person ahead, it is better to cross to the other side of the street or change your route.
• If a car stops next to you, move as far away from it as possible and under no circumstances talk to the people in the car, and even more so, do not agree to get in.
• If the car starts moving slowly alongside you, move away from it and cross to the other side of the road.
• Always inform relatives where you are going and ask them to meet you in the evening.
• It is advisable to go to and from school in a group.

What to do if a stranger harasses you on the street

• Say that you are in a hurry and cannot talk.
• If the person does not leave you alone, try to go out to the roadway and approach people; under no circumstances go into quiet courtyards, and even more so into unfamiliar entrances. If you have a cell phone with you, call your parents or acquaintances, loudly state where you are, and ask them to meet you.
• Do not wait for them to grab you.
• If you can, throw something at the attacker's face (for example, a briefcase, a shoe bag, or just a handful of change) to confuse and distract them for a while.
• Run to where there are many people.
• Use any available means for self-defense: a pen, a comb, or keys (stab the attacker's face, leg, or arm); aerosol (direct the stream into their eyes); a heel (stomp hard on the attacker's leg with your heel).
• Fight with all your might, do not wave your arms aimlessly. You need to inflict maximum pain on the attacker.
• As soon as they loosen their grip, run away.
• If there are several attackers (which is always the case), do not allow yourself to be surrounded.
• Shout loudly "Help!" to attract attention. People hearing such shouts may help or call the police.
• If someone covers your mouth with their hand, bite their hand hard.
• If someone tries to surround you, run into the road. Cars will be forced to stop, and the driver may help to scare off the attackers. The main thing is not to get run over!
• A car can also be a tool for a criminal. You must clearly know that you should not get into someone else's car, even if a woman is driving or in the passenger seat.

Rules of conduct in someone else's car

• Try not to hitchhike; it's better to use a taxi service called through a dispatcher.
• If you are still taking a ride in a passing car or a taxi stopped on the street, ask those accompanying you to write down the car's license plate number and make. Do not get into a car with tinted windows, or a car that already has passengers, even if there are women among them.
• If you have a cell phone, try to constantly talk to relatives (acquaintances) and inform them of your route.
• If the driver's behavior is unpleasant, seems strange, or dangerous to you, ask them to stop the car.
• If the request is not fulfilled and the car is not stopped, try to break a window, that is, do everything to attract the attention of other drivers to the car.
• Do not agree to the driver's offer to pick up fellow travelers, and if they insist, ask them to stop and get out of the car.

What a teenager (both girls and boys) needs to know when going to a party/visiting friends/to a restaurant

In most cases, a girl's mere agreement to go to a restaurant with a guy can be perceived as her understanding of how it will end and her consent to it. Subsequent resistance may be perceived simply as flirting.

• Remember: it's safe to go to a large gathering with trusted friends; during a party, you should not lose sight of each other, and you should all leave together!
• At the beginning of the party, warn everyone that you won't leave without saying goodbye. If you leave the company with someone, tell your friends about it.
• It is necessary to leave or firmly state your attitude to the situation by saying a decisive and unambiguous "No!".
• Trust your intuition. If you feel uncomfortable, don't be ashamed of your caution. It means you don't feel safe. It's better to leave such a party.
• Clearly define the boundaries of possible relationships from the very beginning. This is the main principle of protection against rape.
• If you are with someone who makes you feel uncomfortable, who ignores your feelings, or shows disrespect to you in some other way, it is better to immediately break off relations with that person.
• If the pressure on you continues, do not be afraid of making noise or causing a scandal: a few minutes of embarrassment are better than the risk of rape.
• Remember: it is harder for an intoxicated person to quickly orient themselves in what is happening and prevent violence. With unfamiliar people and at a large party, you should always stay sober!
• Do not use private transport services alone. In this case, ask the person accompanying you to write down the car's license plate number and make.
• If there is an opportunity for one of your acquaintances to meet or pick you up from the party, use it. This will give you more confidence, and you will be able to better control your actions.
• There are no completely reliable ways to protect against potential violence. But there are warning signs that can alert you: for example, disrespect for a person, violation of their personal space. You should be careful if someone:
• is too close to you and enjoys the discomfort you experience;
• stares at you intently, demonstratively scrutinizes you;
• does not listen to what you say, ignores your feelings;
• behaves with you like a good acquaintance, although this is not the case.
• By paying attention to such signs, you can reduce the risk of being subjected to violence not only at a party, but also in other crowded places (in the cinema, at a disco, in the company of friends or acquaintances).

At the same time, if you are in a relationship with someone, you need to understand: in normal healthy relationships, both sides respect each other's personal rights and boundaries; it is necessary to refuse sexual relations with someone who refuses to use appropriate protection; not everyone has a sex life; many teenagers are willing to wait, this is perfectly normal.

Article 166. Rape

1. Sexual intercourse against the will of the victim with the use of violence or threat of its use against a woman or her relatives, or with the use of the helpless state of the victim (rape) — shall be punishable by restriction of liberty for up to four years or deprivation of liberty for a term of three to seven years.
2. Rape committed repeatedly, or by a group of persons, or by a person who previously committed acts provided for in Article 167 of this Code, or rape of a knowingly minor — shall be punishable by deprivation of liberty for a term of five to thirteen years.
3. Rape of a knowingly young minor or rape that negligently caused the death of the victim, or caused grievous bodily harm, or HIV infection, or other grave consequences — shall be punishable by deprivation of liberty for a term of eight to fifteen years.

Article 167. Violent acts of a sexual nature

1. Sodomy, lesbianism or other acts of a sexual nature committed against the will of the victim with the use of violence or threat of its use, or with the use of the helpless state of the victim — shall be punishable by restriction of liberty for up to four years or deprivation of liberty for a term of three to seven years.
2. The same acts committed repeatedly, or by a person who previously committed rape, or by a group of persons, or against a knowingly minor — shall be punishable by deprivation of liberty for a term of five to thirteen years.
3. Acts provided for in parts 1 or 2 of this Article, committed against a knowingly young minor, or negligently causing the death of the victim, or causing grievous bodily harm, or HIV infection, or other grave consequences — shall be punishable by deprivation of liberty for a term of eight to fifteen years.

Article 168. Sexual intercourse and other acts of a sexual nature with a person under the age of sixteen

1. Sexual intercourse, sodomy, lesbianism or other acts of a sexual nature committed by a person who has reached the age of eighteen, with a person knowingly under the age of sixteen, in the absence of signs of crimes provided for in Articles 166 and 167 of this Code — shall be punishable by restriction of liberty for up to four years or deprivation of liberty for the same term with a fine.
2. The same acts committed by a person who previously committed crimes provided for in this Article, Articles 166 or 167 of this Code, or by a person entrusted with the duties of upbringing, maintenance, ensuring the safety of life and health of a minor, or by a group of persons — shall be punishable by deprivation of liberty for a term of three to ten years.

Article 169. Lewd acts

1. Lewd acts committed by a person who has reached the age of eighteen, against a person knowingly under the age of sixteen, in the absence of signs of crimes provided for in Articles 166, 167 and 168 of this Code — shall be punishable by arrest or deprivation of liberty for a term of one to three years.
2. The same acts committed with the use of violence or with the threat of its use shall be punishable by imprisonment for a term of three to six years.

Article 170. Coercion to Acts of Sexual Nature

1. Coercion of a person to sexual intercourse, sodomy, lesbianism, or other acts of a sexual nature by means of blackmail, threat of destruction, damage or seizure of property, or by using the official, material or other dependence of the victim shall be punishable by restriction of liberty for a term of up to three years or by imprisonment for the same term with a fine and with deprivation of the right to hold certain positions or engage in certain activities or without such deprivation.
2. The same act committed against a knowingly minor shall be punishable by imprisonment for a term of three to six years.

Crimes against sexual inviolability and sexual freedom of an individual include: rape, violent acts of a sexual nature, sexual intercourse and other acts of a sexual nature with a person under the age of sixteen, lewd acts, coercion to acts of a sexual nature, etc.

Chapter 20 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Belarus

Article 166. Rape

1. Sexual intercourse against the will of the victim with the use of violence or with the threat of its use against the woman or her relatives, or with the use of the helpless state of the victim (rape) — shall be punished by restriction of liberty for a term of up to four years or by deprivation of liberty for a term of three to seven years.

2. Rape committed repeatedly, or by a group of persons, or by a person who previously committed acts provided for in Article 167 of this Code, or rape of a known minor — shall be punished by deprivation of liberty for a term of five to thirteen years.

3. Rape of a known young minor or rape that negligently resulted in the death of the victim, or caused grievous bodily harm, or HIV infection, or other grave consequences — shall be punished by deprivation of liberty for a term of eight to fifteen years.

Article 167. Violent Acts of a Sexual Nature

1. Sodomy, lesbianism or other acts of a sexual nature committed against the will of the victim (male or female) with the use of violence or with the threat of its use, or with the use of the helpless state of the victim (male or female) — shall be punished by restriction of liberty for a term of up to four years or by deprivation of liberty for a term of three to seven years.

2. The same acts committed repeatedly, or by a person who previously committed rape, or by a group of persons, or against a known minor (male or female) — shall be punished by deprivation of liberty for a term of five to thirteen years.

3. Acts provided for in parts 1 or 2 of this article, committed against a known young minor (male or female), or negligently resulting in the death of the victim (male or female), or causing grievous bodily harm, or HIV infection, or other grave consequences — shall be punished by deprivation of liberty for a term of eight to fifteen years.

Article 168. Sexual Intercourse and Other Acts of a Sexual Nature with a Person Under the Age of Sixteen

1. Sexual intercourse, sodomy, lesbianism or other acts of a sexual nature committed by a person who has reached the age of eighteen, with a person known to be under the age of sixteen, in the absence of signs of crimes provided for in Articles 166 and 167 of this Code — shall be punished by restriction of liberty for a term of up to four years or by deprivation of liberty for the same term with a fine.

2. The same acts committed by a person who previously committed crimes provided for in this article, Articles 166 or 167 of this Code, or by a person entrusted with the duties of upbringing, maintenance, ensuring the safety of life and health of a minor, or by a group of persons — shall be punished by deprivation of liberty for a term of three to ten years.

Article 169. Lewd Acts

Currently, the world, including the Republic of Belarus, is experiencing a steady increase in illegal acts related to pedophilia and child pornography trafficking, as well as other sexual offenses infringing on the sexual inviolability and sexual freedom of minors.

The main source of information for initiating criminal cases involving sexual violence against children remains reports from parents (legal representatives) of minors who have suffered from illegal activities. However, the detection of these crimes is complicated by the reluctance of some adults and children themselves to disclose information about what happened, which allows such criminal acts to remain undetected for a long time, and sometimes forever. Often, the fact of violence becomes apparent when victims enter (seek help from) medical institutions or commit offenses themselves.

Crimes against the sexual freedom and sexual inviolability of minors include the following criminal acts provided for by the Criminal Code of the Republic of Belarus (hereinafter – the Criminal Code):

• rape of a known minor, a child (parts 2, 3 of Article 166 of the Criminal Code);
• violent acts of a sexual nature against a known minor, a child (parts 2, 3 of Article 167 of the Criminal Code);
• sexual intercourse and other acts of a sexual nature with a person under the age of sixteen (Article 168 of the Criminal Code);
• lewd acts (Article 169 of the Criminal Code);
• coercion to acts of a sexual nature of a known minor (part 2 of Article 170 of the Criminal Code).

The main methods (sources) of obtaining information about signs of crimes related to sexual violence against minors are:

• communication with minors;
• communication with persons entrusted with their upbringing (parents, guardians, trustees);
• communication with persons living in the same dwelling with the minor, as well as relatives who frequently visit (cohabitants of one of the parents, stepfathers, grandfathers, uncles, etc.);
• communication with specialists from educational, cultural, sports, and tourism institutions where the minor studies and/or participates (teachers, coaches, club leaders, section leaders, etc.);
• communication with peers, neighbors of the minor, and other citizens;
• results of a medical examination of the minor in a healthcare institution;
• visual inspection of the minor's place of residence (stay);
• monitoring of the global computer network Internet.

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Signs of sexual violence/exploitation against children

It should be understood that for various reasons (fear, shame, denial of guilt, etc.), children who experience sexual violence rarely seek help. Therefore, when communicating with a child, their parents, peers, neighbors, educators (social psychologists), attending physicians, etc., the juvenile affairs inspector must pay attention to the following information about the child's appearance, physical condition, and behavior:

1) physical signs:

– pain when sitting, walking;
– torn, soiled, or blood-stained underwear, clothing;
– hematomas, abrasions, bleeding in the genital or anal area;
– complaints of pain and itching in the genital area;
– soft tissue damage to the chest, buttocks, legs, lower abdomen, thighs;
– foreign objects in the vagina, anus, or urethra;
– urinary incontinence;
– presence of sexually transmitted infections;
– pregnancy;

2) changes in the expression of sexuality:

– seemingly strange and unusual or age-inappropriate knowledge about sex;
– unusual or age-inappropriate sexual activity (masturbation, rubbing against an adult's body);
– increased interest in sexually explicit games or materials;
– tendency to engage in sexual acts with other children;
– imitation of sexual intercourse with characteristic moans and movements;
– seductive, alluring behavior towards peers and adults;

3) changes in emotional state and communication:

– difficulties in communication with peers (avoidance of communication, lack of friends of their age, refusal to communicate with former acquaintances);
– sudden, unmotivated withdrawal, depression, isolation, introspection;
– frequent thoughtfulness, detachment;
– constant depression, sad mood;
– unwillingness to participate in active games;
– obscene language not previously characteristic of the child;
– excessive tendency to scandals and tantrums;
– terrorizing younger children and peers;
– excessive compliance, obsessive dependence;
– regression to infantile behavior, or, conversely, overly "adult" behavior;
– alienation from siblings, other relatives, and family members;
– cruelty towards toys (in younger children);
– ambivalent feelings towards adults (starting from primary school age);
– stories in the third person ("I know a girl...");
– loss of toilet training skills (more common in toddlers);
– indifference to appearance, poor self-care or, conversely, obsessive, excessive washing (in adolescents);

4) personality and motivational changes, social signs:

– truancy from educational institutions;
– sudden change in academic performance (both negative and positive) or loss of interest in favorite activities;
– unexpected, sharp changes in attitude towards a specific person or place ("I hate Uncle Petya," "I can't ride in the elevator," "I won't go to football anymore");
– taking on a parental role in the family (cooking, washing, cleaning, caring for and raising younger siblings);
– inability to protect oneself, non-resistance to violence and bullying;
– denial, rejection of family traditions and way of life, up to leaving home (in adolescents);

5) changes in self-awareness:

– decreased self-esteem;
– disgust, shame, guilt, distrust, feeling of self-corruption;
– self-destructive behavior (alcohol abuse, drug use, prostitution, frequent susceptibility to injuries and accidents);
– suicidal talk and attempts;

6) neurotic and psychosomatic symptoms:

– anxiety, fear when with a certain person (people);
– resistance to touches, kisses from a certain person (people);
– fear of undressing (e.g., refusal during physical education classes or medical examination);
– headache, pain in the stomach and heart area;
– obsessive fears;
– sleep disorders (fear of going to bed, insomnia, nightmares).

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How to react if a child is ready to talk about abuse/exploitation?

If a child is ready to talk about abuse committed (being committed) against them, it is recommended to adhere to a specific behavioral model that minimizes the threat of them "withdrawing into themselves":

– avoiding reproaches, accusations, shaming;
– taking what is heard seriously;
– calmness, composure;
– comforting, encouraging, praising;
– empathy;
– sincerity, honesty;
– using the child's lexicon;
– accepting all information heard without exception;
– immediate and thorough verification of assumptions.

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! It is strictly NOT recommended to:

• give the child rash or knowingly unfulfillable promises ("this will remain strictly between us," "mom won't be angry");
• advise the child to ignore what happened.

When it is possible to visually inspect the minor's place of residence (stay), attention should be paid to visible signs of possible sexual abuse of children, namely:

• easily accessible erotic, pornographic materials (printed publications, optical discs, figurines, photographs, drawings), sexual objects (dildos, lubricants, erotic lingerie);
• traces of substances of possible biological origin (blood, ejaculate) on furniture or other objects;
• traces of sexual acts with toys, dolls (damage or foreign objects in the areas of the conditional location of genitals, imitation of sexual intercourse positions);
• torn, soiled, or blood-stained children's clothing and underwear;

literature, other manuals on psychological influence on children, inconsistent with the occupation and social status of the adults living there.

Половое воспитание – процесс, направленный на выработку качеств, черт, свойств, а также установок личности, определяющих полезное для общества отношения человека к представителям другого пола.

Подростковый период в отношении полового воспитания – это самый ответственный возраст и самый реальный шанс научить детей сексуальному здоровью. Особая актуальность этого вопроса связана с ускоренным формированием структур и функций детского организма, нередко неравномерным, с опережающим развитием психосексуальной сферы, урбанизацией, условиями жизни и питания, методами родительского воспитания.

Половое развитие зачастую опережает формирование социально принятых моральных и этических норм поведения, делая подростков особенно восприимчивыми и зависимыми от сексуальных проблем, значительно затрудняя адекватное управление влечениями.

Психологические особенности старших подростков.

Девушки и юноши вступают в период половой зрелости. Часть девочек вступает в репродуктивный период. У мальчиков это время отмечено как начало периода юношеской гиперсексуальности, продолжающейся до 18-19 лет.

Ведущим видом деятельности подростка является интимно-личностное общение, заключающееся в построении отношений с противоположным полом. Для подростков характерна полярность психики:

• целеустремленность, настойчивость, импульсивность;
• настойчивость может смениться апатией, отсутствием стремлений и желаний что – либо делать;
• повышенная самоуверенность, безапелляционность в суждениях быстро сменяется ранимостью и неуверенностью в себе;
• потребность в общении сменяется желанием уединиться;
• развязность в поведении порой сочетается с застенчивостью;
• романтические настроения нередко граничат с цинизмом, расчетливостью, деструктивным поведением;
• нежность, ласковость бывают на фоне недетской жестокости.

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Recommendations for parents on sex education for adolescents

• Необходимо обеспечить подростка полной информацией о физиологических изменениях, происходящих в организме при половом созревании (поллюции, менструации, рост волос в области гениталий, груди и т.д.). О венерических заболеваниях, о существовании насилия в сексуальных отношениях, что такое секс, сексуальные отношения, способы контрацепции, секс и здоровье, переживания и страхи подросткового возраста и т.д. Наступление менструаций и поллюций застает врасплох неосведомленных мальчиков и девочек, поэтому так важно заранее подготовить подростков к этим изменениям, подчеркнуть здоровый характер этих процессов, объяснить их механизм, научить (закрепить навык) правилам личной гигиены.
• Уважать потребности своих детей (подростков) в формировании собственных границ и не нарушать их. Это важно, так как в этот период у детей развивается чувство личного, интимного пространства. И если взрослые уважают эту потребность, подростки постепенно учатся уважать и личную жизнь других людей.
• Быть тактичными и осторожными в высказываниях. Психофизиологической особенностью данного возраста является выбросом большого количества половых гормонов, что вызывает бурные эмоции, вспышки ярости и агрессии, немотивированную грусть, нервная система подростка не терпит грубого вмешательства и неуважительного отношения к своим переживаниям.
• Прививать скромность в половых вопросах, воспитывать правильное отношение будущего мужчины к девочкам, девушкам и женщинам (профилактика половой распущенности).
• Разговаривать на любые интимные темы, вызывающие интерес подростка. Многие подростки страдают от отсутствия в их жизни уважаемого ими взрослого, который сможет всегда выслушать и помочь в трудной ситуации. Будучи однажды отвергнутым или осмеянным при просьбе о совете по вопросу любовных или сексуальных отношений, подросток никогда впредь не возобновит разговор с взрослым, поскольку пубертатный период отличается особой ранимостью и чувствительностью личности.
• Не сводить половое воспитание к чрезмерной опеке (гиперконтролю) и ограниваться четкими указаниями, как поступать в том или ином случае.
• Совместно находить ответы в разрешении проблем, что значительно поднимает авторитет взрослого.
• Разграничить понятие «любовь» и «секс». Основа полового воспитания тесно связана с понятием «любовь», ведь любовь – моральная мера, которой измеряется половое поведение. Девочки и мальчики должны осознавать важность настоящей любви и знать, что сексуальные отношения существуют не ради секса, а во имя высшего выражения зрелой любви. У подростка необходимо развивать способность к чистой и красивой любви на примере взаимоотношений литературных героев и т.д. Зачатки данной способности наличествуют в душе каждого ребенка.
• Необходимо объяснять подросткам ценность переживания платонических отношений для адекватного формирования зрелой сексуальности, наличие взаимной ответственности двоих влюбленных, важность любви, заботы, уважения и душевной близости в интимных отношениях. В вопросах полового воспитания подросткам рекомендуется повременить с началом половой жизни до того момента, когда они достигнут зрелости (18 лет), получат исчерпывающую информацию о сексуальности и смогут построить безопасные сексуальные отношения.
• Отказаться от тактики запугивания, поскольку «запретный плод всегда сладок», а подросткам свойственно рискованное поведение, высокий уровень негативизма, они не приемлют давление со стороны взрослого.
• В переходном возрасте особе внимание следует уделять воспитанию моральных принципов: добровольности (необходимое наличие взаимного желания партнеров к вступлению в сексуальную близость); уважение личности партнера; уважение чужих сексуальных ценностей и убеждений (отсутствие права принуждения к сексуальной близости); развитие навыков безопасного поведения в социуме; алгоритм действий в случае сексуального насилия (где и как найти помощь).

В воспитании подростков рекомендуется расширение знаний об особенностях своего тела, здоровья, закрепление навыков личной гигиены, соблюдение режима дня, проведение доверительных бесед, дискуссии по вопросам здорового образа жизни, чтение книг, рассказов и статей, просмотр Интернет-ресурсов и кинофильмов, художественных произведений, картин на актуальные темы подросткового возраста и т.д. При необходимости обращаться за консультацией узких специалистов (гинекологов, урологов, сексологов, врачей-педиатров).

Memo for Parents on Preventing Sexual Abuse of Minors

Sexual abuse is the involvement of a child, with or without their consent, in sexual acts with adults for the latter's pleasure or benefit. A child's consent to sexual contact does not make it non-violent, as a child does not possess free will and cannot foresee all negative consequences for themselves.

Parents should pay attention to the following behavioral characteristics in a child that may indicate sexual abuse:

• sudden withdrawal, depression, isolation, introversion;
• a strong reaction of fear or disgust in connection with the physical proximity of a certain adult;
• the child's refusal to undress to hide bruises and wounds on the body;
• demonstration of "adult" behavior, interest in sexual matters;
• the child spends a lot of time with friends' families, classmates, neighbors, and does not want to go home after school;
• truancy from educational institutions, a sudden change in academic performance.

Abuse can be avoided, but for this, it is necessary to help the child learn the "Five 'Don'ts' Rule":

1. Do not talk to strangers on the street or let them into your home.
2. Do not enter an entrance hall, elevator, forest, or other secluded places with strangers.
3. Do not get into a stranger's car.
4. Do not accept gifts (sweets, ice cream, toys, etc.) from strangers or agree to their offer to go to their home or anywhere else.
5. Do not stay on the street alone, especially after dark.

Build warm, trusting relationships with your child! Often, children who lack love, affection, and understanding at home are the ones who get into trouble.

If trouble occurs, seek professional advice from a specialist (psychological, legal, medical). In all regions of the republic, an "Emergency Psychological Assistance" service has been established and operates via "Helplines." Assistance is provided free of charge and anonymously by highly qualified specialists in psychology and psychotherapy.

Currently, in the Republic of Belarus, as throughout the world, there is an increase in illegal acts related to pedophilia and child pornography trafficking, as well as other sexual offenses infringing on the sexual inviolability and sexual freedom of minors.

The main source of information for initiating criminal cases involving sexual violence against children remains reports from parents (legal representatives) of minors who have suffered from illegal activities. However, the detection of these crimes is complicated by the reluctance of some adults and the children themselves to disclose information about what happened, which allows such criminally punishable acts to remain undetected for a long time. Often, the fact of violence becomes apparent when victims seek medical attention.

During their official duties, employees of the juvenile affairs inspectorate and the drug control and anti-human trafficking department directly interact with minors and individuals responsible for their upbringing, visit their places of residence and study. This provides an opportunity to initially respond to incoming statements and reports related to sexual violence against minors. Perpetrators can use not only violent but also seductive tactics. They may offer sweets, ice cream, toys, or promise to show something interesting, invite them to play computer games at their home. With older children and teenagers, they may use money as "bait" in exchange for certain services.

Often, the perpetrator is someone who has daily contact with children and teenagers (leads a club, section, tutors).

When communicating on social networks on the global Internet, criminals, as a rule, pretend to be teenagers, using their manner of communication and tactical techniques to obtain intimate photos or videos and subsequent blackmail. This makes it easier for them to find common interests with a minor, establish psychological contact, and commit various grooming crimes (sexting, sexchatting, sextortion).

Grooming – enticing children into sexual acts using the Internet.

Sexchatting – communication on sexual topics. Sexting – sending messages and images of an intimate nature. Sextortion – blackmail using intimate materials.

In this regard, parents should pay more attention to the sexual education of their children and be concerned about what their children do on the Internet, with whom they communicate, and if the circle of communication is much older and such persons actively communicate with the child, and even more so touch upon sexual topics, then parents should be wary. The Internet resource "Kids.pomogut.by" operates in the Republic of Belarus, providing useful information, online consultations, including through a "hotline" and other assistance on issues of protecting children from sexual violence and exploitation.

You can confidentially and/or anonymously report information about sexual and other violence against minors to the department by calling 102.

Here are some tips to help keep your child safe from danger.

Teach children about their right to personal inviolability, to protect themselves from physical assault by any means. It is IMPORTANT to teach a child to distinguish between respect for adults and unconditional obedience to all elders. Children have the right and should say "NO" to anyone who intends to harm them in any form.

Children should be outside with friends, but only with those you know and not later than 11:00 PM. If they shout loudly together or someone calls parents or other adults, it will stop the perpetrator.

Parents ALWAYS need to know where the child is going, with whom, and how to find them. Convince children that calling for help is not a sign of cowardice, but a necessary means of protection or even salvation. Let them bravely call for help in case of any harassment.

If a child has suspicions about a stranger, they should immediately change their route. On the phone, they should pretend that their dad or an adult friend will meet them on the street. They should say this loudly into the phone.

A mobile phone solves many problems today. It is necessary to ensure that the battery is always charged, and that the parents' phone number, as well as "102", is in speed dial mode or on the smartphone's home screen.

The child should pay special attention to cars passing by. If suspicions or a real threat arise, they should cross to the opposite side of the street or run in the direction opposite to the car's movement.

Children need to be taught strict rules of conduct and self-discipline. Otherwise, their lax observance can easily provoke criminals. Pay attention to children's fascination with sexual literature and video films with erotic scenes.

It is IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER that criminals can use not only violent but also "seductive" tactics. They may offer sweets, ice cream, toys, or promise to show something interesting. The seducer invites them to walk together or asks to accompany them.

KNOW that children are more willing to make contact (especially from 6 to 12 years old), which gives the abuser confidence; they try to win the child's trust, while promising that mutual sexual acts are a harmless and pleasant pastime.

OFTEN , the perpetrator is someone who has daily professional contact with children and adolescents (leads clubs, sections, tutors).

Victims of sexual crimes are more often children and adolescents who are neglected in terms of sex education. For this reason, some children lose their sense of shame, while others are raised in such obedience to adults that in cases of sexual harassment, they do not dare to resist. Children should not allow strangers, acquaintances, or even distant relatives to violate their sexual inviolability.

Try to ensure that children tell you everything that happens to them. Explain that abusers either politely persuade or intimidate children, trying to make them keep it a secret.

What to do if the worst has already happened?

Even if a sexual assault did not end in rape, the child experiences psychological shock. In this situation, they need your help, love, understanding, and tact more than ever.

Often, a child does not immediately report what happened to them, experiencing fear, shame, and embarrassment. However, if you are attentive, you may notice physical signs of sexual abuse: a changed gait, an unusual sitting posture, the child feeling unwell due to pain in the genitals, bruises on the body, frequent bathing (an attempt to "cleanse" themselves, wash away "dirt"), frequent urination, poor appetite.

What happened affects the child's mental state and behavior: they are depressed, sleep restlessly, are tormented by nightmares, new or intensified old fears appear, they cry frequently, become alienated, or, conversely, show excessive attachment.

In this situation, it is important to encourage the child to have an open conversation. If they have the opportunity to talk about what happened, psychologists believe it will help them cope with the stress more gently. When initiating a conversation with the child, you can say the following: "I see that you are feeling very bad, I feel how difficult it is for you. I understand that you are not letting me into your trouble because you want to protect me, you want to stand strong yourself during this difficult time for you, and that's why you have built a wall between us. Let me help you."

It should be known that the first few months are the most difficult for the child, and the slightest memory can trigger a tantrum. At this moment, the main thing is to make them feel how much you love them, how close and dear they are to you.

Do not show the child your worries about what happened. In conversation, do not use expressions like "how dirty this is," "how disgusting," etc. This can cause the child to feel guilty for something they are absolutely not to blame for.

Try to keep what happened a secret from neighbors, acquaintances, and the child's friends, as any careless word or even pity from their side will worsen the situation. And certainly do not discuss what happened in front of the child. They need those around them to accept them as before. They should not feel like an "outsider," catch sympathetic glances, or hear whispers behind their back.

It should be understood that the child will never be able to forget what they experienced. Nevertheless, the episode of abuse will gradually fade from their memory. Be prepared for the child to remain in a depressive state for several more months. Your task is to support them.

Be sure to seek help from the police. Your testimony will help find the perpetrator. They must be punished for abusing your child; moreover, you will protect other children from violence, and perhaps even save their lives.

Memo "Attention, Parents!"

Be vigilant, try to be closer to your children, and be informed about what your child is interested in, who they spend their free time with, and how.

It is necessary to pay attention to a sharply changed behavior of the child, namely if they:

1. Engage in adult conversations about intimate life;
2. Acquire items and objects that their parents or legal representatives could not previously afford for them (mobile phones, tablets, etc.);
3. Increase the amount of communication via mobile communication and the Internet with individuals who are not their peers;
4. Acquire money, including on mobile communication accounts, from strangers, the origin of which the child cannot explain or clearly lies about;
5. Refuse to continue attending private lessons, sharply change their attitude from positive to negative towards the person who conducted the lessons, while being unable to explain the reason for their behavior;
6. Refuses or tries to avoid scheduled medical examinations;
7. Tries to spend more time outdoors, with friends, becomes withdrawn when communicating with adults;
8. Fearing adults, tells their close friends "about secrets" regarding the violence, complains about pain in the genital and internal organs.

In case of detecting facts of sexual assault against a child, it is necessary to contact the internal affairs bodies. Non-disclosure of what happened, and the silence of such facts by adults, leads to the impunity of the offender and gives them the opportunity to commit similar crimes against other minors.