Physical
Abuse Definition
Non-accidental injury to a child that may include severe
beatings, burns, strangulation, or human bites.
Symptoms, or indications of
abuse, vary greatly from child-to-child (or on an individual basis --or in each
individual case). Possibly only one, or a few, or none of these symptoms (or
indicators) will be readily apparent in a child who IS being
abused.
Absence of any or all of these
indicators does NOT mean that a child is NOT being abused. If you suspect there
is a problem, do NOT try to diagnose or determine the extent of the problem on
your own; please contact a professional immediately.
Physical
Indicators
- unexplained bruises (in various stages of
healing)
- welts, human bite marks, bald spots
- unexplained burns, especially cigarette burns
or immersion burns
- unexplained fractures, lacerations or
abrasions
- swollen areas
- evidence of delayed or inappropriate
treatment for injuries
Behavioral
Indicators
- self destructive
- withdrawn and/or aggressive - behavioral
extremes
- arrives at school early or stays late as if
afraid to be at home
- chronic runaway (adolescent)
- complains of soreness or moves
uncomfortably
- wears clothing inappropriate to weather, to
cover body
- bizarre explanation of injuries
*Disclaimer*
Remember these are just indicators and to do
not validate that abuse has occurred. Check with a physician and mental health
professional.
physical abuse | physical neglect | sexual abuse
emotional abuse | effects of abuse
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