IndexPhysical abuseNeglectEmotional abuseSexual abuseConclusionAbuse is when a child is intentionally harmed by an adult or another child. It can occur over a period of time or be a one-time action. The abuse can be physical, sexual, emotional, or neglectful. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original EssayAbuse can sometimes be very obvious, but other times the signs can be much more subtle. It is also normal for symptoms and behaviors of different types of abuse to overlap, so it is important to be vigilant and understand the signs and symptoms well. It is also important to listen to both the child and any comments parents or carers may make. Physical Abuse Physical abuse is when physical harm is inflicted on a child and includes hitting, kicking, punching, biting, scratching, shaking, hitting, or burning. In the case of domestic abuse, it is possible that the child witnessed these acts against a parent or family member. Children who live in a home where domestic abuse is present are more likely to experience other types of abuse. Physical abuse can also include giving the child harmful substances such as drugs and/or alcohol. Encouraging a child to harm another child is also another form of physical abuse. Indicators of physical abuse may include unexpected bruises in places such as the tops and backs of arms and legs, on the neck, chest, stomach, buttocks, or in places hidden by clothing, or bruises that show finger prints or the outline of other shapes . If the child is tired of physical contact or reluctant to undress (i.e. if he has become wet or dirty during play and needs to be changed) this may be an indicator. You may want to consider whether this child frequently bruises outside of the expected bumps and bumps that a child would more normally have, such as forehead, knees and elbows. Children love to play and can be clumsy and rambunctious, so a few bruises and injuries can be a common occurrence, my 5 year old son loves climbing trees and is learning to ride a bike and always has bumps and scrapes to show for it! However, ongoing injuries in unusual locations should be monitored, especially if a parent or healthcare provider is unable to offer an adequate explanation, or if the child's account of the injury is very different from that of the parent(s) who care treatment. Behaviors that may cause concern may include, but are not limited to, isolation, shyness, reluctance on the part of the child to speak, knowledge of adult problems that are inappropriate for his age, unexplained changes in his personality, being aggressive or violent towards others other children or always choose to do so. wear clothes that cover your body, even on hot days. Neglect Neglect is described as a lack of love, care and attention. This is a deprivation of a child's basic needs, including food, clothing, shelter, healthcare, medicine, washing, or supervision. This deprivation can put the child in danger and have a long-term impact on their physical and mental well-being. Neglect can also occur when the child does not receive adequate education or health care, including dental health. For example, the parent may not brush their teeth or take them to the dentist, or refuse or ignore other medical recommendations. It is also important to consider the neglect of the child's emotional needs if he is not receiving the love and nurturing he needs. This can include things like ignoring them, humiliation, intimidation orinsulation. Neglect can be difficult to spot, it is important to look for multiple signs that last over a period of time. Signs and indicators may include poor hygiene, dirt or bad odor. Being hungry, eating a packed lunch that is substandard in terms of quality and/or quantity of food, or not receiving money to purchase food. Having unwashed and dirty clothes. Not having the right type of clothing for the season, such as a warm coat in winter or a sun hat in summer. Babies may have frequent or untreated diaper rashes or other skin conditions that have not been treated. Children may also suffer from health and developmental problems such as medical or dental problems, poor muscle tone or prominent joints, poor language or social skills, tiredness, thin or swollen bellies, weight or growth problems, or untreated injuries. There may also be family or housing problems, the child may tell you about problems within the home, for example, no heating or hot water, being left alone for long periods of time or having to provide care for other family members themselves . Behaviors that may cause concern may include, but are not limited to, the child becoming clingy, depressed, or anxious. Changes in eating habits or theft of food. Finding it difficult to concentrate on tasks may be a sign of tiredness or hunger. Being aggressive with other children or showing signs of self-harm. Emotional Abuse Emotional or psychological abuse occurs when a child is continually emotionally mistreated. It is often part of other types of abuse, meaning it can be difficult to spot, although it can also occur on its own, especially if online. Emotional abuse can include attempts to scare, humiliate, isolate, or ignore. Emotional abuse can also include threatening or yelling at a child, calling them names, not allowing them to have friends, manipulating them, never saying anything kind or expressing positive feelings, or being absent from them. Signs and indicators may include being insecure or lacking in self-confidence, having difficulty controlling their emotions, having problems building and maintaining friendships and relationships, or acting in a way that is inappropriate for their age group. Behaviors that may cause concern may include, but are not limited to, lack of confidence, mistrust or anxiety. Not having a close bond with your parents. Being cruel or aggressive towards other children or animals. Being overly affectionate with other adults or strangers. They may have difficulty controlling their emotions, use foul language, lack social skills, not have many friends, or tend to have extreme temper tantrums. If they are already potty trained, they may show regression in wetting or soiling. Sexual Abuse Sexual abuse is any sexual activity where they are coerced, deceived, or unable to give informed consent. The child may not be able to understand what is happening to him or that it is wrong. It can also happen online or in person. A child may be groomed in preparation for abuse. Sexual abuse also includes forcing a child to observe sexual acts or pornography. It also includes observing or photographing the child for the purpose of sexual gratification. Signs and indicators may include fear of a person they know and not wanting to be alone with them. Knowledge of sexual language or behavior that is not appropriate for their age. Changes in their eating habits or absence of food. Having nightmares, bedwetting, or regression to using the bathroom. Physical signs could include bruising, bleeding, discharge or lesions in intimate areas, infections.