Children Matter Network » April 2007 Campaign to Prevent Child Abuse
Know the warning signs of abuse
Children who are abused may show physical and behavioral signs. You may be this child's only life line to safety. Please pay attention to the treatment of children around you. Child abuse is everyone's business. If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected in Illinois, call 1.800.25ABUSE (1.800.252.2873)
Some general signs are present in children who seem:
- Nervous around adults or afraid of certain adults
- Reluctant to go home (coming to school early or staying late, for example)
- Very passive and withdrawn - or aggressive and disruptive
- Tired a lot or complaining of nightmares or not sleeping well
- Fearful and anxious.
- Abused children may also show sudden changes in behavior or school performance
Some signs of physical abuse:
- Unexplained burns, bruises, black eyes and other injuries
- Apparent fear of a parent or caretaker
- Faded bruises of healing injuries after missing school
Some signs of sexual abuse:
- Difficulty walking or sitting, or other indications of injury in the genital area
- Sexual knowledge or behavior beyond what is normal for the child's age
- Running away from home
Some signs of emotional abuse:
- Acting overly mature or immature for the child's age
- Extreme changes in behavior
- Delays in physical or emotional development
- Attempted suicide
- Lack of emotional attachment to the parent
Some signs of neglect:
- Missing school a lot
- Begging for or stealing money or food
- Lacking needed medical or dental care
- Being frequently dirty
- Using alcohol or other drugs
- Saying there is no one at home to take care of him or her
These signs don't prove that a child is being abused. But they could be a signal that the child and his or her family need help.
Also, know the signs of an abusive adult. Consider the possibility of abuse if a parent or caretaker:
- Seems unconcerned about the child's welfare at school or at home
- Denies problems at school or at home - or blames the child for them
- Sees the child as worthless or as a burden
- Avoids discussing the child's injuries or gives conflicting explanations for them
- Abuses alcohol or other drugs
- Seems isolated from other parents and school, and community activities
- Uses harsh physical discipline or asks other caretakers to use it
- Depends on the child for emotional support
- Seems indifferent to the child
- Seems secretive or tries to isolate the children from other children.
- Frequently blames, belittles or insults the child
These signs don't prove that an adult is an abuser. But they could be a signal that the adult and his or her family need help.
Adapted from Prevent Child Abuse America resources
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Home office: 528 S. Fifth Street, Suite 211, Springfield,IL 62701(217) 522.1129 www.preventchildabuseillinois.org