Child Abuse Indicators

indications of abuse

Phsyical Neglect

Physical Indicators:

• Underweight, poor growth pattern; e.g. small in stature failure to thrive
• Consistent hunger, poor hygiene, inappropriate dress
• Consistent lack of supervision, especially in dangerous activities or for long periods
• Wasting of subcutaneous tissue
• Unattended physical problems
• Delayed speech
• Abandonment
• Abdominal distention
• Bald patches on the scalp

Behavioral Indicators:

• Steals or begs food, hordes
• Frequent falling asleep in school; infrequent attendance at school; arrives late to school and/or leaves early
• Constant fatigue, listlessness or falling asleep in class
• Doesn’t change expression
• Has history of delinquent behavior, such as vandalism or theft
• Abuses drugs or alcohol
• Learned helplessness
• Inappropriate seeking of affection, clingy or needy
• Assuming adult responsibilities
• Talks in a whisper or whine
• States there is no caretaker
• Has considered or attempted suicide
• Regressive behavior, such as thumb-sucking
• Inability to make friends

Caretaker's Attitude/Behavior:

• Expresses feelings of apathy
• Describes chaotic home life
• Has long-term chronic illness
• Displays low motivation to make changes in life
• Has feelings of futility
• May have mental illness or mental retardation
• Abuses alcohol or drugs
• Describes being neglected as a child

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