Helping multiples and their loved ones to remember the music
| Signs and Symptoms of Child Abuse |
| If you suspect child abuse, but aren't sure, look for clusters of the following physical and behavioral signs. |
| Some signs of physical abuse |
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-Unexplained burns, cuts, bruises, or welts in the shape of an object or in various stages of healing -Improbable excuses or refusal to explain injuries -Wearing clothes to cover injuries, even in hot weather -Refusal to undress for gym -Bald patches -Chronic running away -Fear of medical help or examination -Fear of physical contact - shrinking back if touched -Admitting that they are punished, but the punishment is excessive (such as a child being beaten every night to 'make him study') -Fear of suspected abuser being contacted -Bite marks -Anti-social behavior or agression -Problems in school -Fear of adults -Drug or alcohol abuse -Self-destructive or suicidal behavior -Depression or poor self-image |
| Some signs of emotional abuse |
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-Physical, mental and emotional development lags -Sudden speech disorders -Continual self-depreciation ('I'm stupid, ugly, worthless, etc') -Overreaction to mistakes -Extreme fear of any new situation -Inappropriate response to pain ('I deserve this') -Neurotic behaviour (rocking, hair twisting, self-mutilation) -Extremes of passivity or aggression -Apathy -Depression -Hostility -Lack of concentration -Eating disorders |
| Some signs of sexual abuse |
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-Inappropriate interest in or knowledge of sexual acts -Seductiveness -Avoidance of things related to sexuality, or rejection of own genitals or bodies -Nightmares and bedwetting -Drastic changes in appetite -Overcompliance or excessive aggression -Fear of a particular person or family member -Withdrawal, secretiveness, or depression -Suicidal behavior -Eating disorders, sudden loss of appetite or compulsive eating -Self-injury -Medical problems such as chronic itching, pain in the genitals, venereal diseases -Running away -Drug or alcohol abuse -Personality changes such as becoming insecure or clinging -Regressing to younger behaviour patterns such as thumb sucking or bringing out discarded cuddly toys -Inability to concentrate -Lack of trust or fear of someone they know well, such as not wanting to be alone with a babysitter or child minder -Become worried about clothing being removed -Suddenly drawing sexually explicit pictures -Trying to be 'ultra-good' or perfect; overreacting to criticism |
| Sometimes there are no obvious physical signs of sexual abuse, and a physician must examine the child to confirm the abuse. |
| Some signs of neglect |
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-Unsuitable clothing for weather -Being dirty or unbathed, poor personal hygiene -Extreme hunger -Apparent lack of supervision -Constant tiredness -Emaciation -Untreated medical problems -No social relationships -Compulsive scavenging -Destructive tendencies |
| Note: A child may be subjected to a combination of different kinds of abuse. It is also possible that a child may show no outward signs and hide what is happening from everyone |
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