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Warning Signs of Abuse

Remember, most items on this list are only suggestive and never proof that a child has been abused. Many of the behaviors can also be a result of other stresses in the child's life such as divorce, death, illness or a recent move. 

When these symptoms appear repeatedly or in combination, they should be a reason to take a closer look at the situation and to consider the possibility of child abuse.

Abuse comes in many forms:

Neglect is failure to provide for a child's basic needs such as food, clothing, shelter, medical care, education, or proper supervision. Some signs are:

• The child shows signs of malnutrition or begs, steals, or hoards food.
• The child has poor hygiene: matted hair, dirty skin, or severe body odor.
• The child has unattended physical or medical problems.
• The child states that no one is home to provide care.

Sexual Abuse refers to any sexual act with a child by an adult or older child. It includes fondling or rubbing the child's genitals, penetration, incest, rape, sodomy, indecent

exposure, and using the child for prostitution or

the production of pornographic materials. Some signs are:

• The child has pain or bleeding in anal or genital area with redness or swelling.
• The child displays age-inappropriate play with toys, self, or others.
• The child has inappropriate knowledge about sex.
• The child reports sexual abuse.

Physical Abuse is intentional injury inflicted upon a child. It may include severe shaking, beating, kicking, punching, or burning that results in minor marks, bruising, or even death. Some signs are:

• The child has broken bones or unexplained bruises, burns, or welts in various stages of healing.
• The child is unable to explain an injury, or explanations given by the child or caretaker are inconsistent with the injury.
• The child is unusually frightened of a parent or caretaker,

           or is afraid to go home.

• The child reports intentional injury by parent or caretaker

Emotional Abuse may occur when a parent fails to

provide the understanding, warmth, attention, and supervision the child needs for healthy psychological

growth. Some signs are:

•  The parent or caretaker constantly criticizes, threatens, belittles, insults, or rejects the child with no evidence of love, support, or guidance.

• The child exhibits extremes in behavior from overly aggressive to overly passive.
• The child displays delayed physical, emotional, or intellectual development

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