These signs do not necessarily indicate that a child has been abused, but they may help adults recognize the possibility that something is wrong.
POSSIBLE SIGNS OF PHYSICAL ABUSE
• Frequent suspicious or unexplained injuries out of the norm for those normally associated with childhood activities, e.g., burns, deep bruising, etc.
• Improbable excuses or refusal to explain injuries.
• Wears inappropriate clothing to cover injuries, e.g., long sleeves or pants on a hot day.
• Injuries appearing to have a pattern, such as a handprint or belt.
• Fear of medical treatment or examination.
• Aggression toward others.
• Shrinks back from touch.
• Refusal to change for gym or athletic activities.
• Rebels against authority.
POSSIBLE SIGNS OF EMOTIONAL ABUSE
• Excessively withdrawn or fearful.
• Continual self-deprecation, e.g., “I’m ugly,” “I’m stupid,” etc.
• Overreaction to mistakes.
• Emotionally abuses others.
• Extreme sensitivity to criticism.
• Extreme fear of new situations.
• Extremes of passivity or aggressiveness.
• Continuous unwillingness to develop relationships.
POSSIBLE SIGNS OF SEXUAL ABUSE
• Difficulty walking or sitting.
• Makes strong efforts to avoid a person without explanation or strong reluctance to interact with a person.
• Fear of touch.
• Wearing excessive amounts of clothing.
• Isolation or withdrawal.
• Insecure or clinging.
• Extreme personality changes.
• Sudden loss of appetite or compulsive eating.
• Inability to concentrate.
• Being overly affectionate or acting out sexually.