Below are indicators of child abuse that include but are not limited to these signs. Some signs that a child is experiencing abuse are more obvious than others. Trust your instincts. Suspected abuse is enough of a reason to contact authorities. You do not need proof.
Behavioral Signs Include:
- Acting out sexually, or knowledge of sex that is not age appropriate
- Self-destructive and risk taking behavior (hair pulling, cutting, drug and alcohol use)
- Returning to earlier behaviors (bedwetting, thumb-sucking)
- Changes in school performance and attendance
Emotional Signs Include:
- Nightmares/changes in sleeping
- Depression or unstable moods
- New or unusual fear of certain people or places
- Separation anxiety
Physical Signs Include:
- Unexplained injuries
- Lack of personal hygiene or care
- Weight loss/gain, change in appetite
- Swelling, redness, soreness, bleeding, infections or other changes in the genital area
- Frequent headaches or stomach aches
1 in 10 children will be the victim of sexual abuse before the age 18.
Keeping our children safe, starts with a conversation.
Did You Know?
The pinwheel is the sign for child abuse prevention
