Recognizing Signs of Abuse and Neglect

Recognizing Signs of Abuse and Neglect

It’s important to be able to recognize signs of abuse and neglect in families so that you can help make a difference. It is also important to be able to distinguish what is real child abuse and what is normal, family behavior. Just because you are suspicious doesn't mean that the child in question is actually being abused. These signs will help you be able to determine if you should report your suspicions.

If you notice a child acting strange, these are some ways to determine if he may or may not be in a dangerous or abusive situation. If a child shows sudden changes in behavior or school performance, has not received medical help for an injury they have, has learning problems that cannot be attributed to mental illness or physical causes, is very watchful and paranoid, or lacks adult supervision, this child may be in a dangerous situation and you should investigate further. Some other signs may be that they are overly passive or withdrawn, they come to school early and stay late, they don’t want go home, they are reluctant to be around a particular person, or if they specifically disclose maltreatment with you.

(source: https://www.childwelfare.gov/pubs/factsheets/whatiscan.pdf#page=3&view=What Are the Major Types of Child Abuse and Neglect?”