Recognizing Signs of Child Abuse

It is disturbing topic to consider, but the fact remains that we don't live in a very child-friendly world.  Statistics estimate that one million children are abused yearly in the United States.   The actual figures are probably higher because many incidents go unreported.  Children are often too frightened to ask for help, and adults may hesitate to intervene, feeling it is a private family matter.

The Statistics
Current child abuse statistics are sobering.  Abuse is not limited to beatings. It encompasses physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, as well as physical neglect.  Often, more than one form of occurs.  Of all children abused in the United States, anywhere from 1,000 to 13,000 die as a result of their injuries.  One out of every four girls and one out of every eight boys is sexually abused before the age of 18.  90% of the time the abuse occurs in the home at the hands of a parent, sibling, or relative.  Regardless of the form or duration, the emotional scars of abuse last a lifetime.  The earlier the abuse is stopped, the better.

Telltale Signs
Unfortunately, visible signs of abuse could result from any number of other causes.  Bruising, cuts, and bumps are common to all children, but distinguishing what is normal from what is unusual is the key to identifying abuse.  If you suspect a child is being abused, look at the child's behavior, emotional state, and physical appearance. 

Physical signs of abuse may include excessive or hidden bruises (hidden by clothing, for example).  Black eyes and broken or fractured bones may also be present, sometimes in multiple incidences.

Abused children behave differently. This may become particularly noticeable in situations where they interact other children, such as school.  Traumatized children show a high occurrence of:

• Nightmares
• Poor grades
• Poor self-image
• Difficulty trusting
• Inappropriate sexual behavior
• Intense bursts of anger
• Withdrawal
• Difficulty forming friendships
• Fear of adults
• Unwillingness to go home

Be aware that these behaviors also occur with children who witness and are under stress from a divorce or separation of one or both of their parents.  Once again, it is important to look closely at the child's life to confirm suspicions of abuse.

Like their children, abusive parents often show specific behavioral patterns.  They are often withdrawn, not participating in conversation or public activities.  Abusive parents tend to avoid joining discussions of their children with other parents, or may be overly critical.

What to Do
Anytime abuse is suspected, the best course of action is to report your suspicions.  You literally could save their life.  Local child protective services such as agency, police, hospital, and emergency hotlines are available to help.  If you feel uncomfortable or unsure when reporting a suspected abuse, it is possible to remain anonymous.  If you suspect your own child may be a victim, eliminate all contact with the suspect until the matter is investigated. 

It is hard to believe anyone would intentionally harm a child, but it happens.  Although definitive signs of child abuse are difficult to recognize, it is possible to form suspicions based on a child's behavior, appearance, and emotional state.  Considering the number of children who die yearly from abuse, any suspicion is enough reason to seek help