25 SIGNS OF CHILD ABUSE AND WHAT ACTIONS SHOULD BE TAKEN
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There are many different signs of child abuse, which can be physical, emotional, or behavioral. Here are 25 common signs of child abuse, along with some suggestions for what should be done in response:
Unexplained bruises, welts, cuts, or other injuries
Frequent headaches or stomachaches
Fear of going home or being alone with a particular person
Avoidance of physical contact or flinching when touched
Sudden changes in behavior or personality
Trouble sleeping or nightmares
Eating disorders or sudden changes in appetite
Sexual knowledge or behavior that is inappropriate for the child’s age
Withdrawal from friends or activities they once enjoyed
Poor hygiene or unclean clothes
Lack of supervision or neglect
Lack of medical attention for injuries or illnesses
Physical or emotional aggression toward others
Being overly compliant or passive
Seeming depressed or anxious
Abnormal fears or phobias
Signs of substance abuse or addiction
Sexualized behavior or comments
Running away from home
Self-harm or suicidal thoughts
Inappropriate or excessive anger
Preoccupation with death or dying
Poor school performance or frequent absences
Controlling or manipulative behavior toward others
Excessive or inappropriate punishment
If you suspect that a child is being abused, it is important to take action to protect them. Here are some steps you can take:Contact Child Protective Services or a local law enforcement agency to report the abuse.
Talk to the child in a non-judgmental way and let them know that you are there to help.
Encourage the child to talk to a trusted adult or a professional, such as a counselor or therapist.
Offer emotional support and validation to the child.
Do not confront the abuser directly, as this could put the child at further risk.
Educate yourself on the signs of abuse and ways to prevent it in the future.
Remember that it is important to take action if you suspect abuse, as it can have serious long-term consequences for the child’s physical and mental health.
