The following are a few
of the physical and behavioral indicators of child abuse and
neglect. Please note that the listed indicators in each category
may pertain to more than one type of abuse or neglect. For
example, “lack of concentration” could be a sign
of sexual abuse, as well as emotional abuse. Those indicated
in bold lettering tend to be the most common signs and symptoms.
•Unexplained burns, cuts, bruises, or welts in
the shape of an object
•Child gives unbelievable explanations
for injuries.
•Bite marks
• Anti-social behavior
•Afraid to go home and/or may request to stay at school,
day care, etc.
•Feels deserving of punishment or suggests other children
should be punished in a harsh manner.
• Problems in school
• Seems frightened of parents and/or adults
• Chronic academic under-achievement
• Development lags
• Habit disorders- biting, rocking, head banging
• Thumb sucking in older child
• Poor peer relationships
• Irrational and persistent fears, dreads or hatred
• Eating disorders
• Inappropriate interest or knowledge of sexual acts
(for age level)
• Redness, rashes or complains of itching in genital
area
• Nightmares and bed wetting
• Sudden change in appetite/grades/personality
• May replay the sexual abuse with classmates, friends,
teachers
• Acts unusually seductive
• Fear of a particular person or family member
• Dirty, unwashed &/or inappropriately dressed for
weather
• Reports no caretaker in the home
• Consistently hungry- begging or stealing food
• Apparent lack of supervision and involvement in child’s
life
• Truancy issues
Remember- Many children
are too young to tell about their abuse. They depend on you
to notice and report!
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