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.
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If you do suspect a child is being harmed, reporting your suspicions may protect the
child and get help for the family. Any concerned person can report suspicions of child abuse and neglect. Some people
(typically certain types of professionals) are required by law to make a report of child maltreatment under specific circumstances
—these are called mandatory reporters. For more information, see the Child Welfare Information Gateway publication, Mandatory
Reporters of Child Abuse and Neglect.
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For more information about where and how to
file a report, contact your local child protective services agency or police department. An additional resource for
information and referral is the Childhelp® National Child Abuse Hotline (800.4.A.CHILD).
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Recognizing Child Abuse
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The following signs may signal the presence
of child abuse or neglect.
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The Child:
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** Shows sudden changes in behavior or school performance.
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** Has not received help for physical or medical problems brought to the parents' attention.
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** Has learning problems (or difficulty
concentrating) that cannot be attributed to specific physical or psychological causes..
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** Lacks adult supervision.
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** Is always watchful, as though preparing for something bad to happen.
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** Is overly compliant, passive, or withdrawn.
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** Comes to school or other activities early, stays late, and does not want to go home.
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The Parent:
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** Shows little concern for the child.
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** Denies the existence of — or blames the child for — the child's problems in school or at
home.
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** Asks teachers or other caregivers to use harsh physical discipline if the child
misbehaves.
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** Sees the child as entirely bad, worthless, or burdensome.
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** Demands a level of physical or academic performance the child cannot achieve.
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** Looks primarily to the child for care, attention, and satisfaction of emotional
needs.
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The Parent and Child:
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** Rarely touch or look at each other.
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** Consider their relationship entirely negative.
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** State that they do not like each other.
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| TYPES OF ABUSE |
