Emotionally and Physically Bruised
Approximately 5 children in the United States die every day because of child abuse.
- Every year, there are 3 million reports of child abuse in the United States.
- A report of child abuse is made every 10 seconds.
Genie Wiley - TLC Documentary (2003)
Signs of Child Abuse
A child who's being abused may feel guilty, ashamed or confused. He or she may be afraid to tell anyone about the abuse, especially if the abuser is a parent, other relative or family friend. In fact, the child may have an apparent fear of parents, adult caregivers or family friends. That's why it's vital to watch for red flags, such as:
- Withdrawal from friends or usual activities
- Changes in behavior — such as aggression, anger, hostility or hyperactivity — or changes in school performance
- Depression, anxiety or a sudden loss of self-confidence
- An apparent lack of supervision
- Frequent absences from school or reluctance to ride the school bus
- Reluctance to leave school activities, as if he or she doesn't want to go home
- Attempts at running away
- Rebellious or defiant behavior
- Attempts at suicide
Want to know ways on how to prevent child abuse?
Get involved. Tell other people about child abuse resources in your community and services like the National Child Abuse Hotline (1-800-4-A-CHILD).
Promote programs in school. Help the schools in your community be the source of education about child abuse, not just math, English and science. Childhelp’s Speak Up Be Safe program provides an age appropriate curriculum for schools, parents and kids to take a stand against child abuse.
Help yourself and de-stress when necessary. If you find yourself being the one who is stressed out, then maybe it’s time to let a trusted friend or family member in to help on occasion.
Report it. If someone is showing signs of being abused, tell somebody. A caring parent, teacher, sibling, counselor, nurse, etc.