Child Neglect Flashcards
Indicators of child neglect
Low birth weight
Stunted growth
Emaciated appearance
Lethargy
Repeated requests by children for food from neighbours, teachers and others
Unlaundered, ill-fitting, shabby and worn-out clothing
Lack of protective clothing and footwear to suit weather conditions
Consistently grimy faces and hands
Disheveled hair
Head lice
Frequent colds and runny noses
Complaints from neighbours about children being left alone or begging for food
Indicators of child physical abuse
Frequent and severe bruises from being beaten, in various stages of healing
Wounds and scars from being scalded or burned
Lacerations around the mouth
Old and new bone fractures
Abused children suffer emotional scars, impaired social relationships, and damaged self-esteem. These effects hinder social and emotional development and often persist into adulthood. Common behavioural manifestations of these effects are:
Wariness and distrust of adults
Apprehension when other children cry
Extremes in either aggressiveness or passivity
Fear of parents and/or of going home
Difficulties in forming relationships with others
Hypervigilant behavior in the presence of others
Attention deficits
Silence and withdrawal
Anxious and clinging attachments to adults
Inability to play spontaneously and freely
Aggressive outbursts toward other children
