KNOW THE SIGNS:

Developmental

• Failure to thrive

• Delayed physical development

• Speech disorders

• Attachment issues, such as seeking comfort and attention from others or difficulty forming relationships

Physical

• Lack of adequate supervision, nutrition, shelter

• Poor hygiene

• Rashes and skin abrasions

• Bruises or fractures

• Frequently home alone or without appropriate supervision

Educational

• Infrequent attendance in school

• Excessive tardiness

• Lack of school supplies

• Incomplete or missing homework or school forms

Medical

• Unattended medical or dental needs

• Regular illnesses

Behavioral

• Low self-esteem

• Behavior extremes, such as appearing overly passive or very aggressive

• Substance abuse

• Fear of adults 

Myths of Child Abuse

MYTH #1:   It’s only abuse if it’s violent.

Fact:   Emotional abuse, Sexual abuse, and Neglect are also forms of abuse.

MYTH #2:   Only bad people abuse their children. 

Fact:   Many abusers have been victims themselves, and don’t know any other way to parent; others may be struggling with mental health or substance abuse problems. 

MYTH #3:   Child abuse doesn’t happen in “good” families. 

Fact:   Child abuse crosses all racial, economic, and cultural lines. 

MYTH #4:   Most child abusers are strangers. 

Fact:   Often, abusers are family members or others close to the family.

MYTH #5:   Most children do something to cause the abuse to occur. 

FACT:   The child is always the victim. The responsibility for the abuse lies with the adult.