Observing Physical and Behavioral Signs
What is child abuse?
Child abuse is legally defined as:
-
A physical injury which is inflicted by other than accidental means on a child by another person.
-
Sexual abuse, including both sexual assault and sexual exploitation.
-
Willful cruelty or unjustifiable punishment of a child.
-
Cruel or inhuman corporal punishment or injury.
-
Neglect, including both severe and general neglect.
-
Abuse (all of the above) in out-of-home care.
Children who are too frightened to talk about physical abuse or molestation may exhibit a variety of physical and behavioral signals. Any of these signs may be significant.
- Changes in behavior such as withdrawal, fearfulness, crying without provocation.
- Appetite disturbances.
- Recurring nightmares, disturbed sleep patterns or fear of the dark.
- Returning to more infantile behavior such as bedwetting, thumb sucking or excessive crying.
- Torn or stained underclothing.
- Vaginal or rectal bleeding, pain, itching, swollen genitals or vaginal discharge.
- Unusual interest in or knowledge of sexual matters, or expressing affection in ways inappropriate for a child of that age.
- Fear of a person or an intense dislike at being left somewhere or with someone.
- Other behavioral signals such as aggressive or disruptive behavior, running away, failing in school or delinquent behavior.
Remember that taking action is important. For more information call:
- Immeadiate attention- Police 408-730-7100
- Department of Family & Children Services: 408-299-2071
- Youth in Crisis Hotline: 888-247-7717
- Social Advocates for Youth: 650-961-2625