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My dad likes to touch me. Is this sexual abuse?

279 Answers
Last Updated: 06/03/2022 at 1:24am
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Top Rated Answers
GoldenFury13
January 22nd, 2020 7:38pm
It depends how he is touching you, and how old you are. Always be sure to confirm his intentions. If he is hugging you for a long period of time don't assume he is trying to abuse you, maybe he was missing you or was having a rough day and just really needed a hug to make him feel better. Depending on how old you are him cuddling with you at night isn't always abuse, maybe he is just trying to hold onto you while he still can because you are growing up fast. I have personally experienced this and I know that my dad isn't sexually abusing me. Hope this helped. :)
Anonymous
January 25th, 2020 2:55pm
If he's touching you in a way that is fatherly like for example patting your head etc then that is not sexual abuse. However if he is touching you in areas that you are not comfortable in for example for private areas or he is becoming quite aggressive when coming to touch you then I do think it is sexual abuse and you should talk to a trusted adult about it straight away whether its your mum or a teacher. Someone who you can trust. Don't feel embarrassed, it can be quite nerve wracking but if it puts you in danger then your safety matters most.
Anonymous
April 1st, 2020 11:07pm
Hey! i hope your okay but i know this must be such a difficult time but we're here to help. When this happens how does it make you feel and also how often does it happen? the most important thing is dealing with how you cope with this and making sure you're okay and can talk through any uncomfortableness of the situations. feel free to send me a request if you want to talk to anyone over chat to try and understand this a bit more. no judgement, you just got to remember that you're not alone! reaching out is a great first step to the recovery... Holly x
amazingBlossom1326
April 5th, 2020 3:56am
Absolutely. Contact the police, a trusted adult, a school worker, or your doctor immediately. This is not okay and you have the right to feel safe. Of you cannot reach out for help, local hospitals can help you report this. Whether it is still happening now or has happened in the past, you have the right to protection. Reach out. There are programs and services available through counseling programs and county social service organizations that can help you with counseling as well if you want to pursue assistance. Family services can also provide help. Remember, this is not your fault.
circusmirror123
April 8th, 2020 8:05pm
I think it depends on the way he likes to touch you, and the places too. The main thing that defines if it is abuse is how this makes you feel. If it is making you feel uncomfortable, and you want him to stop then it definitely would be classed as sexual abuse. Especially if you have repeatedly told him you don't appreciate the way he is touching you, and he is continuing to touch you. Otherwise, it could just be him trying to express his love for you as a father! If it gets to the point where he refuses to stop and you feel unsafe, you should report this.
WildflowerHeather
April 11th, 2020 12:47am
If your dad is touching you somewhere that is making you feel uncomfortable, and it happens repeatedly, that could certainly be sexual abuse. If this is happening to you and your dad does not stop, please find a trusted adult and tell them about your situation so you can get the help you need. It is never good to put up with any type of abuse, and the sooner you can get it stopped, the better. Abuse should be taken very seriously, so please take action. I hope that it stops, and I hope that you get the help you need.
BrightMay
April 16th, 2020 7:10pm
It depends on where he touches you, when he touches you and around whom, and the time could also help you know if it is suspicious or now, please tell any adult you trust and ask them about it. but to me the word "likes" is already suspicious however i do not know you nor your dad so it it important for you to figure it out and take action as soon as possible to prevent furthur things that he might do, please stay safe and protect yourself. thank you for reaching out on 7 cups and take care
CelloandMellow
June 6th, 2020 3:49pm
There are a lot of nuances to sexual abuse, and abuse in general. Many questions need to be asked before you come to a final conclusion. Is this touching consensual? What is the nature of him touching you? When and how does this occur? If the touching is nonconsensual, that already presents a problem. Whether sexual or not, you have a right to your space and who gets to touch you. The nature of a touch depends on where it is and for how long, as well as considering the situation leading to it. Finally, a touch in public could be an embarrassment tactic - be wary of the context in which these touches occur, and in front of whom. I hope that you're okay!
RedOwl5
July 10th, 2020 5:01am
It depends. Where is he touching you? If it is in the bathing suit area, then yes, that is abuse. If it is in a more innocuous area, such as the arms for example, then it could still be abuse depending on why your dad is doing it. Does he seem aroused? Is it part of a fetish? If so, it may be abuse. If the purpose is not for arousal, then there is one more question to ask. Have you told him this makes you uncomfortable and he continues to do it? In this case, it may be harassment. If the touching is on an innocent body part, is not for the purpose of arousal, and does not make you uncomfortable then everything is ok!
LadyDair
August 19th, 2020 4:26pm
It sounds like it's possible, without knowing more about the context or type of touching it's hard to say. But if you feel uncomfortable with anything- anything at all- that's your system telling you that something is wrong, and needs to change. So I would definitely pay attention to that feeling, and know that it's completely valid to feel that way. You know you. Your feelings are important. If you can, try to write down some of what's going on and talk to yourself in a letter. What would you say? What would you say to a good friend who was feeling the same way you are? These are good ways to assess what's going on and what you can do.
hopeworldtokyo
August 26th, 2020 10:29pm
Sexual abuse is anything that makes you feel uncomfortable. If your dad is touching you in a sexual way he is crossing your boundaries. Although he is your dad he is not entitled in any way to touch you in places that make you uncomfortable. This is not something any person should go through alone. If you have a friend or family member you trust to disclose this information with they can help you navigate through your healing process. There are many resources that can provide you support throughout this time. Please, seek local resources to begin your journey to healing.
Getthroughittogether
September 10th, 2020 3:47pm
If this is not consensual it is sexual abuse. It is illegal and if you are negatively influenced by these actions then it it not ok. It should never happen and you must be careful around him because it is not ok what he is doing to you. If you are uncomfortable or upset about your father touching you and if it is not consensual then I assure you, it most definitely sexual abuse, sexual harassment and depending on you're circumstances, may be rape. And it is also incestual. Please stay safe and be careful. Report these criminal actions if you feel the need too.
Anonymous
September 11th, 2020 10:51am
Sexual abuse does not have to involve sex, penetration, or nudity. Any time an adult or older person touches or handles a minor inappropriately, even if the minor doesn't seem to notice or mind, is problematic. Hugging, "playing," rubbing, lap-sitting, and any other physical contact might be considered abusive. Remember, sexual abuse need not involve touch at all—a minor can be sexually abused with words only, for example, or with a camera. It’s up to parents, family members, and friends to keep an eye out for the "grooming" behaviors in the adults who come into contact with a their minors.
Anonymous
September 11th, 2020 7:23pm
Well, it can be or it can be not. It all depends on how he touches you? And how you feel after he touches you? Do you feel disgusted and uncomfortable? Do you think this is not appropriate behavior of him? If you feel a bit of fear of being around of him because of his touches. Then it is sexual abuse. But if you are comfortable then it's not. How does he behaves when he touches you? Is it normal or weird? And also the timings matter too? Do he touches you when you are alone if yes then you are in problem.
recoveryNpeace
January 6th, 2021 7:01pm
It's really hard to answer your question buddy like it can be a normal dad to child touch, or on the darker side, it can be a sexual lustful touch. being here we can't really decide what it is, it is something you will have to figure out self. Look for signs like how strong his grab is, are there any particular areas where he touches regularly, and how he is while he touches you, is normal or is he sort of taking pleasure out of it. As much as I would want to give you a clear answer, I can't. It's something you'll have to look for your own. If you need to talk about it, you are welcome to, I will be glad to hear you out.
Samirah555
March 17th, 2021 6:43pm
Sexual abuse can be considered as any act in which one individual tries to pressure someone into acts sexual in nature without the other person's consent or with someone below the age of consent. Kissing, fondling, digital penetration can come under can fit into the category of sexual abuse. Abuse has many connotations if its an area that is deliberately touched making you uncomfortable and scared then it most definitely it sexual abuse and also harassment. You might want to think what your boundaries are. What makes you comfortable and what makes you comfortable? You may also want to think what is the emotional and social impact of my dad treating me in this way? It is an offence and you can to do something about it in order for it to stop. As difficult and as uncomfortable as this is to talk about telling someone (e.g. an older adult you trust) may provide you with a chance to be listened to. There may be thoughts going through your mind about whether you will be believed or whether your dad will pose more of a danger if you share. This is a serious topic and you have the power to put an end to it. Sharing about uncomfortable experiences takes time and courage. RAINN is an example of an organizations that provides help for those who have experienced trauma. If wanting to communicate in an anonymous online environment please do not hesitate to communicate with one of our listeners or therapists on our site. We are here to listen and help you to express yourself!
Anonymous
April 23rd, 2021 5:54pm
Depending on where he is touching you at. Is he touching you in way you dislike? If so then yes, he is abusing his power of being bigger into getting what he wants, have you told your mom about this? I'm sorry if I am asking so many questions I just want to help is all. Try distancing yourself from his area. Have you told any of your other family members or friends about this. Maybe speak to your counselor the problem could be bigger than what it is right now. I would say talk to someone about it, get there opinion.
Anonymous
August 26th, 2021 4:03pm
Generally, if anyone touches you and you feel very uncomfortable as a result, it is abuse. With a father in question, it might be important to also understand in what places he touches and if his intentions are malicious. But regardless of his intentions, if the way he touched you is making you question if it is sexual abuse then it is clearly making you uncomfortable. The next step you can take is to tell someone you trust, or if you're feeling brave enough then actually confront him about it and make it clear that you do not like being touched.
Anonymous
October 27th, 2021 4:55pm
If any person does something to you that you are NOT comfortable with, that is abuse. If they're inappropriately touching you, that is abuse. Your boundaries should not be crossed by anybody, family or not. Please remember that NONE of this is your fault. It can be hard to accept that someone close to you could be hurting you in such a way, but no matter what, this isn't your fault. You are not to blame at all for what is happening to you. Please try and seek help from your country or state, especially if you are under 18. It will get better. Don't be afraid to reach out.
Anonymous
November 17th, 2021 11:57pm
Is the touch on your private parts? Does the touch feel inappropriate or is it crossing a boundary for you? Would you rather him not touch you in this way? Your body is your own, and know one is allowed to touch you without your explicit permission. Say "no" to touch that doesn't feel right to you. If saying "no" feels too uncomfortable or somehow unsafe, please reach out to someone you trust, a sexual abuse hotline, or a local social service organization to get the support you need and deserve. It is important that you reach out as soon as possible so you can get yourself the help you need. There is no shame in reaching out. If you are indeed a victim of sexual abuse, the shame is not yours to bear (even though it's natural to feel shame), it is your abuser's, exclusively, as he is the one who did something wrong. He is the parent and you are the child, regardless of your age (even teen or adult child).
softHand8436
December 8th, 2021 7:48pm
It depends on how he is touching you. If he’s affectionate in a fatherly way, then perhaps not. But if he is touching certain body parts and inappropriate places… You also may want to think about how it makes you feel when he does this. Do you feel uncomfortable? Do you feel violated? That could also be an indicator. If you do feel violated or uncomfortable understand that his behavior is not your fault, or a result of anything you may be doing in particular. Ultimately he makes his own decisions and mistakes. If you ever find yourself feeling uncomfortable, there are many hotlines and numbers to call as well. :))) I Hope this helps!!!
starryYellow6821
April 13th, 2022 1:50am
I'd like to be honest to you, i think yes because father doesn't touch their children that way especially if its uncomfortable. I hope that you would find courage to seek help on this matter. You deserve protection and there are people who can help you with this. Don't be afraid, that's okay. And also, if you want to make sure if what was your dad's purpose on doing it, you can ask him but protect yourself. Call for help before doing this just for anything happens. Anyway, I wish you are in the right place and take care. Hope this message will get you.
Anonymous
June 3rd, 2022 1:24am
That matters on how he's touching you and if you are giving consent. If he is touching you in your private areas, your butt, or your chest area and you did not give him permission or consent or you felt forced to give him permission or consent, then that would be sexual abuse, especially if he does that repeatedly. Your body is yours and no one has the right to touch it without your full given consent. I know it can be daunting to speak out against these situations since he is an authority figure in your life, so if you can try to find a trusted adult or call a hotline.
Anonymous
June 13th, 2016 11:34pm
It is sexual abuse and you should come to talk to someone of your entire trust so they can help you to get out of this situation asap!
Greatlistener87
June 15th, 2016 4:17am
Depending on where and how he touches you, then it can be sexual assault. But bottom line is if he is making you uncomfortable ask him to stop and if he does not then report it to someone who can do something and someone u can trust.
mentalhealthactivist19
June 16th, 2016 4:37am
ANY unwanted sexual contact, including kissing, fondling, or touching is sexual assault. It does not matter whether or not penetration is involved. And ALL cases of sexual assault are serious.
AshUnderstands
June 16th, 2016 5:23am
It depends on the way he is touching you. if it is sexual and inappropriate then yes it is. If this is the case you should seek professional help immediately. i recommend calling the police or telling a teacher / trusted adult.
UntilThen
June 30th, 2016 12:13am
If he touches you in a way that is inappropriately invasive then yes, that is sexual abuse and you should talk to someone.
HopieRemi
July 7th, 2016 7:07am
If you did not consent for your dad to touch you, then yes it is sexual abuse. It is never okay for someone to touch you against your will. Check out rainn.org
SarahRussell
July 9th, 2016 9:48pm
It is. for one thing, it is incest, which is illegal in the United States. Also, if it isn't consensual, it is sexual abuse.