Peer-on-peer child abuse
Peer-on-peer child abuse is a term used to describe children abusing other children.
Peer-on-peer child abuse can include:
- bullying (including online bullying and bullying because of someone’s race, religion, sexuality, disability or trans status)
- abuse by your girlfriend, boyfriend or partner
- physical abuse
- sexual violence, such as rape and sexual assault
- sexual harassment
- sharing naked or semi-naked photos or videos without permission
- upskirting
- initiation/hazing type violence and rituals to harass, abuse and humiliate
- emotional abuse
- financial abuse
- coercive control
Spotting the signs
Things to look out for if you suspect a child is a victim of peer-on-peer child abuse:
- absence from school or lack of interest in school activities
- physical injuries which can’t be explained
- mental or emotional health issues
- becoming withdrawn or showing a lack of self esteem
- lack of sleep
- alcohol or substance misuse
- sudden changes in behaviour
- inappropriate behaviour
- showing harmful behaviour towards others or self (self-harm, violent outbursts)
Report it
If you suspect that peer-on-peer child abuse is happening it is always best to report it.