Why is it so important to be alert to behavioral indicators of sexual abuse? a. because fear, shame, or a sense of responsibility may prevent children from reporting sexual abuse b. because children who are being sexually abused frequently develop coping mechanisms and behaviors c. because children may try to protect their abuser d. all of the above?

The answer would be D, all of the above. Children who are sexually abused will not usually report the abuse because they feel embarrassed or they feel that it is their fault. Coping mechanisms are something that your body (specifically, your brain) creates to protect you from getting hurt. Because sexual abuse victims feel embarrassed, they will try to prevent their abuser from harm.