Hand Tools : Discipline : Family Anger

The Signs of Child Abuse and Neglect

Anger is momentary madness, so control your passion or it will control you.
-- Horace

Whether you are a parent, day care provider, teacher, or any professional who works with children, you need to know the signs of child abuse.

Child abuse is divided into four types -- physical, neglect, emotional, and sexual. They may be found together or separately. For
example, a physically abused child may also be emotionally abused while a sexually abused child may not be physically abused. Additionally, these signs and symptoms may be the result of other causes and should
always be considered carefully. If you are still unsure, after reading these signs, please consult a local hotline or mental health/social work
professional.

* Signs of physical abuse:

= Unexplained burns, bites, bruises, broken bones, or black eyes.
= Fading bruises or other makes noticeable after an absence from school.
= Afraid of the parent or refuses to go home with parent at end of day.
= Shrinks when adults approach.
= Reports an injury by a parent or another adult caregiver.

* Signs of neglect:

= Frequently absent from school.
= Begs or steals food from classmates.
= Lacks adequate medical or dental care.
= Wears inadequate clothing during harsh weather conditions.
= Abuses alcohol or drugs.
= Reports that no one is at home to care for him or her.

* Signs of sexual abuse:

= Difficulty walking or sitting.
= Bizarre, sophisticated, or unusual sexual knowledge or behavior.
= Becomes pregnant or contracts a venereal disease.
= Extremely withdrawn or depressed.
= Has bloody underclothing.
= Reports that genitalia have been touched or play with by an
adult or older child.

* Signs of emotional maltreatment:

= Extremes in behavior, such as overly compliant, demanding, or aggressive behavior.
= Inappropriately adult-like or infantile in behavior.
= Severe delays in physical or emotional development.
= Attempts suicide.
= Shows no attachment to adults at an early age.

For the sake of brevity, I have not included parental behaviors toward the child. Additionally, children who are abused have various emotional signs, such as depression, anger, and anxiety. Again, these signs are only
indicators of the possibility of abuse and should never be used alone. Look for patterns and the overall context of the child and his/her behavior to make a determination about abuse. Report these signs to your local Child Protective
Agency or Police Department immediately.

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