Children react differently to abuse; however, certain behavioral and physical signs can indicate abuse. It’s essential that every person know these indicators.
Changes in behavior, including appearing anxious, passive, depressed, withdrawn, or excessively angry
Fear of being with a particular person
Changes in school performance or attendance
Self-harming behaviors, such as using drugs or alcohol, engaging in promiscuity, carrying a weapon, cutting, or trying to run away
Changes in eating and sleeping that may show up in physical appearance
Returning to earlier behaviors such as bed-wetting, thumb-sucking, fear of strangers, and baby talk
Unexplained injuries or physical issues such as headaches, stomach pain, and trouble walking or sitting
Apparent lack of adult supervision or care
Little concern for the child
Talks about extensive disciplining of the child and asks others to use harsh discipline
Unrealistic expectations of the child
Berates or humiliates the child constantly
Sees the child as bad, worthless, or out of control
Denies that problems exist at home or blames the child for them
Unable / unwilling to meet the child’s basic needs and provide a safe environment
Expects the child to provide the caregiver with attention and care and may be jealous of others
Failure to thrive with poor growth or weight gain
Poor hygiene, appearing uncared for or unkempt
Lack of clothing or other basic needs
Obsession with food, such as eating a lot in one sitting or hoarding
Poor school attendance
Lack of attention for medical or dental care
Emotional behavior inappropriate to the situation
Indifference
Unexplained injuries, including broken bones, bruises in the shape of objects or on the face, or burns
Injuries to an immobile child
Untreated medical or dental problems
Disclosures of such abuse
Sexual behavior or knowledge that is inappropriate for the child’s age, such as explicit language or acting out sexual scenarios with dolls, toys, or friends
Aggressive sexual behavior toward other children
Physical signs, including headaches, stomach pain, trouble walking or sitting, urination pain, or blood in underwear
Pregnancy or sexually transmitted infection
Withdrawal or loss of self-confidence/self-esteem
Depression and anxiety
Inappropriate emotional response or delayed development
Overly interested in affection
Loss of interest in school or activities
Avoidance of certain situations, including attendance and participation in school
Unexplained physical issues such as headaches and stomach aches