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Child abuse is more than bruises and broken bones. While physical abuse might be the most visible, other types of abuse, such as emotional abuse and neglect, also leave deep, lasting scars. The earlier abused children get help, the greater chance they have to heal and break the cycle—rather than perpetuate it. By learning about common signs of abuse and what you can do to intervene, you can make a huge difference in a child’s life.
Child abuse facts
- Child abuse is when a caregiver purposefully harms a child.
- About 40 million children worldwide suffer abuse every year, with more than 1,500 children dying of abuse in the United States annually.
- Survivors of child maltreatment are at greater risk for physical, emotional, work, and relationship problems throughout childhood and into adulthood.
- Common forms of child abuse include neglect, physical assault, emotional abuse, and s3xual assault.
- Child abuse risk factors include issues that involve the victim, family, perpetrator, and community.
- Victims of child abuse often experience stress in reaction to the abuse as well as symptoms related to the kind of abuse they endured.
- Child abuse symptoms and signs vary according to the child's developmental stage and age.
- The treatment for child abuse involves first securing the safety of the child from further abuse and addressing any physical injuries from which the child may be suffering. The emotional needs of the child are then assessed and addressed.
- There are many ways to prevent child abuse; every state in the U.S. has child-abuse-reporting hotlines.
Warning signs of s3xual abuse in children
- Trouble walking or sitting.
- Displays knowledge or interest in sexual acts inappropriate to his or her age, or even seductive behavior.
- Makes strong efforts to avoid a specific person, without an obvious reason.
- Doesn’t want to change clothes in front of others or participate in physical activities.
- An STD or pregnancy, especially under the age of 14.
- Runs away from home.
