Signs of abuse in children

PROTECTING children from abuse and neglect is a community responsibility and while most adults want to help, many may be unsure about how to get involved. Knowing the signs can assist in early intervention.

Physical indicators of child abuse:

Bite marks.

Bruises on uncommonly injured body surfaces. Lacerations.

Burns.

High incidence of accidents or frequent injuries. Fractures/broken bones in unusual places such as the skull, ribs and so on.

Injuries, swellings to face and extremities.

Discolouration of skin. Blunt-instrument marks. Human hand marks. Multiple injuries at different stages of healing.

Evidence of poor care/failure to thrive.

Behavioural indicators of child abuse – the child might:

Avoid physical contact with others. Be apprehensive when other children cry.

Wear clothing to purposely conceal injury, such as long sleeves. Refuses to undress for sport or for required physical exams at school. Give inconsistent versions about occurrences of injuries.

Seem frightened of parents. Be frequently late for or absent from school

Come to school early and seem reluctant to go home afterwards. Have difficulty getting along with others.

Play aggressively and hurt peers. Complain of pain upon movement or contact.

Have a history of running away from home.

What you can do to end GBV:

Be an activist against GBV in your homes, communities, work and positions. Challenge cultures and practices that perpetuate gender inequalities and consequent abuse of women and children at personal and societal level.

Play your part. Reject and report abusers. Act and don’t look away. Do not protect abusers, report them. Challenge and denounce cultural practices that perpetuate gender inequalities.