Recognizing Child Abuse

Causes & Examples	Visible bruises, burns, black eyes Broken bones, head trauma

Physical Indicators	Unexplained bruises or welts Marks in shapes of objects

Behavioral Indicators	Bruises/marks that don’t fit the story Afraid to go home Fearful of other adults Low self-esteem Drug/alcohol use

Neglect
Causes & Examples	Intentional maltreatment Is not given food, clothing, shelter, healthcare No supervision

Physical Indicators	Poor hygiene/odor Dirty clothing Left alone/unsupervised Failure to thrive

Behavioral Indicators	Constant hunger Frequently absent from school Parents are rarely around Willingness to please

Causes & Examples	Verbal abuse Ridiculed, blamed, criticized Given little or no love, guidance Witnessing domestic violence

Physical Indicators	Eating disorder Treated unequally in family Regressive in behavior Aggressive/angry

Behavioral Indicators	Overly eager to please Low self-esteem Excessive anxiety Abusive towards others

Causes & Examples	Indirect and direct forms Exposure to pornography Fondling/kissing/penetration

Physical Indicators	STD’s Pain when urinating Bruises/bleeding/discharge

Behavioral Indicators	Poor relationships with friends Acts overly seductive Withdrawn/depressed/suicidal Sexual acting out Alcohol/drug use Runaway