Can you recognize warning signs or symptoms of child abuse or neglect?
You might never see physical signs of child abuse, however the behavior of a child being abused may include:
- A change in their personality
- Anger and/or aggressive behavior towards others
- Poor self-esteem
- A change in hygiene
- Greater interest and knowledge in sex
- Isolation or becomes a loner
- A lack dental and/or medical attention
- A dirty appearance and lacks sufficient clothing for weather conditions
- Stealing food or money from friends and classmates
- A feeling of discomfort when being around adults
- Bruises, cuts, or injuries that they can’t explain
- A change in their school performance
- An indication that no one is at home
- The appearance they are being watched and afraid, as if something bad might occur
- Spending an unusual amount of time at a friends home or at school
- Learning problems start to develop for no apparent reason
- Scared submissive behavior around adults
- Refusal to go home
- Drug or alcohol use
- Admitting to injury by a parent or caregiver, but always follows by saying it was an accident or they were playing around
- A tough time sitting or walking
- Refuses to change clothes in front of others or have physical activities
- Running away
- Extreme passivity or aggression and often demanding
- Rocking or head-banging (infantile behavior)
- A lack of attachment to the parents
If you see the above signs, you need to immediately react and offer assistance. Click here to find a list of available resources
For statistics and facts related to child abuse click here.