Sexual behaviours displayed by children and young people that can be harmful
This short resource explains harmful sexual behaviour in children and young people, including which behaviours are considered harmful and why they may occur.
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Hosted on https://nationalcentre.org.au/ • Opens in a new tab
How this resource can help
Use this resource to
Understand what the term ‘harmful sexual behaviour’ refers to
Recognise examples of behaviours that may be harmful
Better understand some of the factors that may contribute to a child or young person displaying harmful sexual behaviour
Look beyond a behaviour to understand what may be contributing to it
Identify when additional support, assessment or specialist services may be needed
It covers
What harmful sexual behaviours are and how they differ from expected sexual development, including examples of behaviours that may be harmful
Evidence about factors associated with children and young people displaying harmful sexual behaviour, such as age and gender
Why children and young people might display harmful sexual behaviour
Key messages about ways to respond that focus on support and understanding, not blame
Further resources and support services
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Hosted on https://nationalcentre.org.au/ • Opens in a new tab
Last reviewed by Together We Can: 07 July 2026
What is problematic and harmful sexual behaviour
Problematic and harmful sexual behaviour affects children, families, and communities. Understanding it clearly is the first step toward effective prevention, recognition, and response.
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Parents and carers
If you’re a parent or carer seeking information or worrying about a behaviour, you're not alone. Find resources to help you understand child sexual development, support safety, and respond to concerns about sexual behaviour.
Children and young people
It’s normal to have questions about your body, feelings, sex and relationships. If you’re a young person looking for information – head here. We’ve got information just for you.