2 year old behavior?

Question

We just got custody of a 2 year old boy and his brother. I know some behaviors are typical for that age, but he comes from a neglectful and abusive home, so it is hard to weed out what is normal and what is from the enviornment he was in. My husband has caught him several time with his diaper off and humping the bed, as if he was imitating intercourse. Anyone have any input?

Answer 1

Sadly, it sounds like he was sexually abused.

Children don't show any signs of sexual behaviour at that age unless they've been introduced to it.

Answer 2

Given his history, it is best to get EVERYTHING checked out... try to find a child therapist you really like. Taking off the diaper is a fairly normal behavior, especially it seems for boys. My 1 1/2 year old would be butt naked 24/7 if I would let him. Humping the bed, however, is a trickier one. Many children between 3-5 or so discover their privates and that rubbing or such feels good. Its not sexual, its just bodily discovery. Also, as you said, it may be imitating... perhaps he has seen people have s*x, many parents have been walked in on before, so it may not even be that anything was done to him. The best thing to do is talk to a therapist, and really just be there for him. It is so wonderful that you are taking him in, I wish you all the best.