Child Abuse and Neglect (1)

Question 1

What are some warning signs of Emotional Abuse?

Answer 1

• Be excessively withdrawn, fearful, or anxious about doing something wrong
• Show extremes in behaviour (extremely compliant, demanding, passive, aggressive)
• Not seem to be attached to the parent or caregiver
• Act either inappropriately adult-like (taking care of other children) or inappropriately infantile (thumb-sucking, throwing tantrums)

Question 2

What are some warning signs of Physical Abuse?

Answer 2

• Have frequent injuries or unexplained bruises, welts, or cuts. Their injuries may appear to have a pattern such as marks from a hand or belt.
• Be always watchful and “on alert,” as if waiting for something bad to happen
• Shy away from touch, flinch at sudden movements, or seem afraid to go home
• Wear inappropriate clothing to cover up injuries, such as long-sleeved shirts on hot days

Question 3

What are some warning signs of Sexual Abuse?

Answer 3

• Have trouble walking or sitting
• Display knowledge of sexual acts inappropriate for their age, or even exhibit seductive behaviour
• Make strong efforts to avoid a specific person, without an obvious reason
• Not want to change clothes in front of others or participate in physical activities
• Have an STD or pregnancy, especially if < 14 yrs

Question 4

What are some warning signs of Child Neglect?

Answer 4

• Wear ill-fitting, filthy, or inappropriate clothing for the weather
• Have consistently bad hygiene (unbathed, unwashed hair, body odour)
• Have untreated illnesses and physical injuries
• Be frequently unsupervised or left alone or allowed to play in unsafe situations
• Be frequently late or missing from school