What can be done if a child engages in sexual activity with another child and exhibits concerning behavior?

Question

Hello doctor,

My son is 7 years old. He is unusual. He was caught under the covers with another boy, and my son had his penis out of his pants, and the boy was going to perform oral sex on him. I inquired my son whether he had ever been touched. He said yes to his friend, who is also seven years old and in the same class. My son stated that the other boy urged him to pull his pants down again, and he caressed his buttocks and penis. My son has since begun to play with his poop. What should I do? This is disturbing me a lot. Please help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern I know it is a difficult problem you are going through. It could be part of many conditions, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), or even intellectual deficit, which require careful evaluation. I assume he is already on medications like Methylphenidate and Clonazepam, which control overactivity and defiant behavior to an extent. You may have to try a behavior technique called Parental Management Training. Essentially, you spend quality time with your child, boost positive behavior with reinforcements like rewards, and ignore negative behavior initially. Later on, slowly introduce punishment for negative behaviors. You may need to approach a therapist; alternatively, you can also get information online too. Again, you should keep a watch on his social circle too. Children can get influenced quickly, especially if they are vulnerable. Try to address that too. Keep hope. It may be difficult, but worth the effort. The last option will be a trial of off-label medication like Risperidone, which can be considered if other options fail.

Thank you.

What can be done if a child engages in sexual activity with another child and exhibits concerning behavior?

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