Signs of Abuse in Children
Maryland defines child abuse as: Physical injury (not necessarily visible) of a child under circumstances that indicate that a child’s health or welfare is harmed or at substantial risk of being harmed. This includes:
- The failure to give proper care and attention to a child, leaving a child unattended where the child’s health or welfare is harmed or a child is placed in substantial risk of harm.
- An act or acts involving sexual molestation or exploitation whether physical injuries are sustained or not.
- Identifiable and substantial impairment of a child’s mental or psychological ability to function.
- Finding credible evidence that has not been satisfactorily refuted that physical abuse, neglect or sexual abuse occurred.
http://dhr.maryland.gov/child-protective-services/reporting-suspected-child-abuse-or-neglect/what-is-child-abuse-and-neglect/
Behavioral signs
- Displays sexual behavior and/or uses sexual language that is not age appropriate
- Behavioral regression
- Self-injurious behavior
- Suicidal thought and symptoms of depression
- Sleep disturbance, nightmares, bedwetting
- Unexplained changes in child’s behavior: avoiding physical contact, isolating themselves, excessive bathing or refusal to bathe
Physical signs
- Painful urination or defecation
- Pain, bleeding, or discharges in genitals, anus or mouth
- Sexually transmitted diseases
- Persistent or recurring pain during urination and bowel movements
- Wetting and soiling accidents unrelated to toilet training
If you are concerned about child sexual abuse find out how to make a confidential report here: http://dhr.maryland.gov/child-protective-services/reporting-suspected-child-abuse-or-neglect/
