My Body is My Body
Child Abuse Prevention Programme
www.mybodyismybody.com
Signs of Child Abuse
Child Abuse
Child abuse happens when someone (adult or child) - harms a child. It can be physical, sexual or emotional, but it can also involve a lack of love, care or attention. Neglect and Emotional Abuse can be just as damaging as Physical and Sexual Abuse, so it is important to watch and be aware of the signs of abuse. The child may be suffering from more than one abuse, so the following is just a guideline. If you notice distinct changes in a child's behaviour, make sure you take note to see if any of the following indicators are relevant.
On the following pages you will find indicators of abuse and neglect that you may see in children. If you see any of these indicators or if a child reveals information to you:
- Remain calm and do not force the child to give information.
- Comfort the child and thank them for sharing with you then notify your relevant Child Protection Services.
- Remember a child may only disclose a small portion of information at a time until they see your reaction is calm and supportive.
Neglect
Neglect is the ongoing failure to meet a child's basic needs. It includes not providing a safe home, food, clothing or medical care, as well as leaving a young child alone or with someone who is not capable of looking after the child. This is the most commone form of child abuse.
Signs:
Child's Appearance
- Poor hygiene, dirty hair, body odour
- Clothes inappropriate for the weather
- In need of medical or dental care
Child's Behaviour
- Often tired, no energy, lethargic
- Begs or steals food
- Frequent lateness or absence from school
- Defiant behaviour
- Low self-esteem
Physical Abuse
Physical abuse is any injury to a child that is not accidental (broken bones, bruises, cuts, burns and other injuries) or any action which could seriously harm the child.
Signs:
Child's Appearance
- Unusual bruises, welts, burns or fractures
- Bite marks
- Frequent injuries always explained as accidental
- If an explanation does not match the injury
- Wears long sleeves or other concealing clothing to hide injuries
Child's Behaviour
- Unpleasant, hard to get along with
- Unusually shy, avoids other people
- May be too anxious to please
- Appears to be afraid of parents
- Shows little or no distress at being separated from parents
Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse includes any type of sexual activity or inappropriate touch with a child, including taking pornographic pictures.
Signs:
Child's Appearance
- Torn, stained or bloody underclothing
- Experiences pain or itching in genital areas
- Has a sexually transmitted infection
Child's Behaviour
- Sexual behaviour or knowledge that is inappropriate for the child's age group
- Inappropriate sexual touching of other children
- Abrupt change in behaviour
- Extreme reluctance to be touched in any way
Emotional Abuse
Emotional abuse includes belittling a child, intimidation, unreasonable threats, aggression, excessive criticism, undermining the child, and emotional blackmail.
Signs:
Child's Behaviour
Signs may be less obvious than other forms of abuse, so behaviour is probably the best indication.
- Withdrawal from friends and social activities
- Frequent lateness or absence from school
- Loss of self-esteem
- Defiant behaviour
- Changes in school performance
If you suspect child abuse, please follow your school's procedures for reporting abuse. If none are in place, please call your relevant Child Protection Services and get advice. They will listen to your concerns and take action on your behalf if a child is in danger.
Let's keep children safe!
www.mybodyismybody.com