Recognize the Signs

The first step in helping abused or neglected children is learning to recognize the signs of child abuse and neglect.  The presence of a single sign does not prove child abuse is occurring in a family, but a closer look at the situation may be warranted when these signs appear repeatedly or in combination.

Signs of Physical Abuse

Physical Indicators
Unexplained, chronic, or repeated bruising:

• On the face, throat, upper arms, buttocks, thighs, or lower back
• In unusual patterns or shapes which suggest the use of an instrument
• On an infant
• In the shape of bite or pinch marks
• In clusters
• In various stages of healing

Unexplained burns

• Cigarette, immersion, rope burns
• Burns in the shape of common household utensils or appliances

Unexplained skeletal injuries

• Any skeletal injury of an infant
• Injury to the facial structure, skull, and bones around the joints
• Fractures and dislocations caused by a severe blow, twisting, or pulling of the arm or leg

Other unexplained or repeated injuries

• Lacerations, abrasions, welts, scars, and other unexplained marks
• Missing, chipped or loose teeth, or other oral injury
• Loss of hair/bald patches
• Broken eardrum
• Abdominal injuries

Behavioral Indicators

• Behavioral extremes
• Inappropriate or excessive fear of parent or caretaker
• Unusual shyness, wariness of physical contact
• Substance abuse, truancy, running away
• Reluctance to return home
• Belief that punishment is deserved
• Suggestion that other children should be punished in a harsh manner
• Victim's disclosure of abuse
• Depression, excessive crying
• Unbelievable or inconsistent explanation for injuries
• Attempt to hide injuries

Signs of Sexual Abuse

Physical Indicators

• Somatic complaints, including pain and irritation of the genitals
• Sexually transmitted disease
• Pregnancy
• Bruises or bleeding from external genitalia, vagina, or anal region
• Genital discharge
• Torn, stained, or bloody underclothes
• Frequent, unexplained sore throats, yeast or urinary infections
• Bed wetting

Behavioral Indicators

• Victim's disclosure of sexual abuse
• Poor peer relationships, inability to relate to children of same age
• Regressive behaviors, such as bed wetting or thumb sucking
• Sudden changes in behavior
• Promiscuity or seductive behavior
• Aggression or delinquency
• Truancy or chronic running away
• Substance abuse
• Difficulty walking or sitting
• Preoccupation with sexual organs (child's own or others)
• Recurrent nightmares, disturbed sleep patterns, or fear of the dark
• Sudden decline in school performance
• Unusual age-inappropriate interest in sexual matters
• Age-inappropriate ways of expressing affection
• Avoidance of undressing or wearing extra layers of clothes
• Self-injury

Signs of Neglect

Physical Indicators

• Poor hygiene
• Unsuitable clothing; missing key articles of clothing, such as underwear, socks, shoes, or coat
• Untreated illness or injury
• Height and weight significantly below age level

Behavioral Indicators

• Frequent or chronic school absence
• Chronic hunger, tiredness, or lethargy
• Begging or collecting leftovers
• Assuming adult responsibilities
• Reporting no caretaker at home