Parenting Pointers: Spotting Signs of Child Abuse

There are a number of professions and roles in society where it is important to be able to identify child abuse, whether you are a teacher, a nanny, a doctor, a caseworker, a pastor, a parent, or a friend. Knowing what signs to look for can help you move forward in addressing the issue and stopping the detrimental effects of child abuse. In order to best advocate for children, you must be able to recognize the signs of abuse through a child's non-verbal communication and changes in behavior. Below are a few indicators that could be a sign that a child is suffering from abuse.

Sudden Changes In Behavior

If you have a child whose behavior drastically changes, it is most often a sign that something in their life has changed. Changes are not necessarily related to abuse; for example, a child's attitude may change if their parents are going through a separation. Still, it is important to identify and address these changes. Typical changes in behavior include anything from acting out in class or during activities, to picking fights, to becoming less communicative.

Sudden Lack Of Interest In Hobbies Or Drop In Grades

If a child in your life suddenly withdraws from a hobby that they used to have great interest in, it could be a sign that something is wrong. This could be a sport or extracurricular activity they used to enjoy, and now prefer not to participate in anymore. It could also be a red flag if a child's grades drop significantly.

Fear Of Basic Physical Contact

While your relationships with the children in your life may not require physical contact, there is basic contact that children may avoid. This could be anything from games that children play that requires hand holding, or even patting a child on the back. If a child shies away from physical contact, it could be a sign that they relate physical contact with harmful behavior. Clingy behavior or extreme shyness can be an indicator too.

Visual Signs Of Physical Abuse

Since children are often active and energetic, they are prone to bumps, bruises, and scrapes. If you see that a child with visible signs of abuse, such as bruising, burns, cuts, broken bones, or discomfort walking or sitting that are not typical of general child's play, it could be a sign that something else is occurring. Also look for signs of self-abuse like cutting, pulling out hair, or repetitive fidgeting.

Need For Basic Needs

Sometimes, children living in loving and supportive environments lack basic needs. Look for signs of malnutrition, hunger, lack of cleanliness, or lack of appropriate medical care. By identifying these signs, you may be able to direct families to programs that can offer them support.

There are many different forms of abuse that children may be subjected to. This could be anything from neglect of basic needs such as food, water, shelter, hygiene needs, medical treatment, or basic clothing. It could also include, physical abuse, sexual abuse, or general neglect. Ensure that you know appropriate channels to report abuse through, both for the organization you work in, and within the state you reside.

This article was provided by Sandy Wallace, aspiring lawyer with a strong interest in health and social awareness. If you know of anyone, including a children, who has sustained a personal injury, Sandy urges you to seek or recommend legal counsel and medical help.