Do children at different ages demonstrate different symptoms of victimization?
David Finkelhor: Certainly! For example, younger children will be more likely to cry, show their distress, and reveal their physical symptoms related to abuse. Older kids have learned more about how to cope through denial and showing a stiff upper lip. They frequently have different patterns as a result of that. Learning problems, for example, are more characteristic of older kids. Criminal and violent behavior tend to be more characteristic of older kids, as well. GC: Do you think they attempt to hide it more too, once they`re older? David Finkelhor: Yes, they do tend to hide it more. Older children have better skills for concealing their emotions and their reactions. GC: How does the trauma resulting from abuse differ from other traumatic experiences, such as natural disasters or illness? David Finkelhor: The key difference about abuse is that it is being done by someone. Therefore, the element of betrayal and the issues related to trust are much more evident. It affects children`s s
