Sometimes, child abuse can seem like an issue that is far away from you and your family. However, research tells us that approximately 5 children die every day because of child abuse, and 90% of child sexual abuse victims know the perpetrator in some way. Because of this, keeping a high awareness of signs that a child may exhibit while going through traumatic and adverse childhood experiences can help save lives. Here are some ways you can keep an eye out for the children around you.
Sensing for Changes in Behavior
If a child seems particularly withdrawn from activities they usually enjoy, or exhibit changes in mood and interactivity with other children, this may be a sign that they are going through something traumatic. If the children around you seem different, keep their behavior in mind and take appropriate steps if it is evident that they are going through child abuse.
Physical Signs of Abuse
Keep an eye out for physical signs of abuse such as unexplained bruises or cuts. Any child who is going through abuse may feel ashamed or guilty, leading to a refusal to tell anyone about the abuse. So, keeping an eye out for physical changes that are not consistent with the child’s development can save their lives.
Be Cognizant of Caregivers
Sometimes, abuse can be spotted in caregiver behavior as well. If a caregiver shows little concern for the child, consistently belittles or berates the child, and describes the child with negative terms, such as “worthless” or “evil”, this may be a sign of child abuse. Another possible sign that caregivers are physically abusive is when they repeatedly brings the child for medical evaluations or requests medical tests, such as X-rays and lab tests, for concerns not seen during the health care provider’s examination.
When children are being abused, they often keep quiet due to
feelings of shame. At times, it is also because their abuser is someone they
know. This is why it’s important for us to protect the children in our
community when they cannot stand up for themselves.