Red Flags: Warning Signs of Abuse

Dear Friend,

Have you ever had that gut feeling that something wasn’t right?

Maybe a child’s behavior suddenly changed. Maybe you noticed a teen pulling away, seeming more anxious or withdrawn. Maybe someone’s actions toward a child felt a little… off. And maybe, like many of us, you weren’t sure if it was worth bringing up—or if you were just overthinking.

Let me say this clearly: you are not overthinking.

You’re discerning. You’re paying attention. And in today’s world, that makes you rare and brave.

We often associate silence with peace, but when it comes to abuse—silence is not peace. It’s protection for the wrong person.

“Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.” – Psalm 82:4

God calls us to speak up—not in fear or accusation, but with wisdom, courage, and love.

Why People Don’t Speak Up (and Why We Must)

So many abuse stories begin with red flags that were ignored. Why?

Because speaking up can feel risky:

• “What if I’m wrong?”

• “I don’t want to start drama.”

• “This person is so respected…”

• “It’s probably nothing…”

But here’s the truth: saying something doesn’t cause harm. Silence does.

Most abusers count on adults staying quiet. They groom not only children—but communities. That’s why being proactive matters. When we learn to spot the warning signs, we can intervene before the damage is done.

Red Flags to Watch For:

In Kids or Teens:

• Sudden behavior changes: fearfulness, aggression, withdrawal

• Nightmares, bedwetting, or anxiety around specific people or places

• Age-inappropriate sexual knowledge or behavior

• Self-harm, depression, or fear of going to certain places (like church or school)

In Adults Around Kids:

• Seeks alone time with specific children often

• Overly physical or affectionate beyond what’s appropriate

• Ignores or pushes past children’s boundaries

• Has lots of “special secrets” or gifts for one child

• Defends their access to children instead of supporting healthy boundaries

**One red flag doesn’t confirm abuse—but a pattern of red flags should never be ignored.

What To Do If You Notice Something

1. Pray first. Ask the Holy Spirit for clarity, courage, and wisdom.

2. Don’t dismiss it. Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is.

3. Document details: What happened? When? Who was involved?

4. Tell someone in leadership or follow reporting protocols if abuse is suspected.

You don’t have to be a professional investigator—just a person who refuses to look away.

Let’s Pray:

“Lord, give me eyes to see like You see. Help me to pay attention, to listen with compassion, and to act with courage. If someone is being hurt, give me the boldness to speak up. And if I’ve stayed silent in the past, give me grace to start fresh. Let my voice be a light in the dark. In Jesus’ name, amen.”

You might be the one person who notices what no one else sees. And that might just save someone’s life. You are not powerless. You are placed. And you were made for such a time as this.

With you in the fight,

Explicit Movement Staff