About: Child Abuse - What Are The Signs of Child Abuse?
General Indicators of Child Abuse
- Change in behavior, grades
- High risk behaviors – drugs, promiscuity, etc
- Running away
- Low self-esteem
- Suicidal thoughts/attempts
Physical Abuse Indicators
- Story of how injury occurred does not make sense or remain consistent
- Bruises/burns that have a defined shape
- Injuries in places not common with childhood activities
Sexual Abuse Indicators
- Age-inappropriate sexual knowledge
- Fear of certain persons or places
- Nightmares, bedwetting
- Unexplained gifts, money, special privileges
Neglect Indicators
- Malnutrition, stealing food
- Child is unattended for long periods of time
- Exposure to dangerous items: weapons, drugs, etc
Possible Perpetrator Indicators
- Grooming ~ deliberate actions taken by an adult to form a trusting relationship with a child with the intent of later having sexual contact.
- Taking an excessive interest in someone’s child (text messaging, seeking time alone).
- Giving gifts or money to the child for no apparent reason.
- Talking about topics that are not appropriate for age or relationship (child’s experience with dating or sexual acts, adult topics).
- Initiating physical contact with child (tickling, wrestling, lap sitting, kissing, hugging).
- Allowing child to have special privileges or break the rules.
Note to Remember: Not all sexual assault perpetrators are adults.
