9 yr old girl Masturbating

The real problems with this behavior are two: 1. It is a self-soothing activity being done by a child who has been abused and whose life experience has taught her not to trust others; only herself. Therefore, you'd really want to be the one to supply saftey and comfort for her. So, on this score, it is better to discourage the behavior by limiting it to non-public places and by you providing safety and seccurity for her. 2. It is a repitition of the sexual abuse...sort of identification with the aggressor. Another reason to discourage it and to find healthier ways to address the trauma. regards,