Child Abuse and Maltreatment/Neglect: Identification and Reporting

Chapter One - Recognition of Child Abuse, Maltreatment, and Neglect

Chapter 1: Recognition of Child Abuse, Maltreatment, and Neglect
Introduction
Perpetrators of Child
Abuse
Physical Abuse
Emotional Abuse
Sexual Abuse

Chapter 2: Reporting Child Abuse and Maltreatment/Neglect

Chapter 3: The Abandoned Infant Protection Act

Chapter 4: The Consequences of Child Abuse

References

Appendices

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Sexual Abuse

Because most sexual abuse cases do not present apparent physical evidence or indicators, identification and recognition are often very difficult. To compound the problem of detection and identification, the many legitimate fears which child victims of sexual abuse experience make it extremely difficult for them to report the abuse, even to a very trusted adult or friend.

The fact that the vast majority of child molesters are family members or friends of the child or his/her family makes disclosure of the abuse very difficult for the child. The child can fear loss of affection. The child can also fear shame and guilt. Threats made against them if they should disclose the activity, make children fearful of reprisals.

Child sexual abuse is not found in only certain areas of the state or among only people of certain economic conditions. There is no profile for a child molester. Unparalleled reputations count for nothing. There are no typical victims. The victim can be any child.

Sexual abuse can include promoting prostitution, fondling, intercourse, or using the child for pornographic materials. Consider the possibility of sexual abuse when the child:

Physical Indicators of Sexual Abuse

  • Has difficulty walking or sitting;
  • Reports nightmares or bedwetting;
  • Experiences a sudden change in appetite; or complains frequently of abdominal discomfort of pain;
  • Becomes pregnant, particularly in early adolescent years;
  • Contracts a sexually transmitted disease, including venereal oral infections in pre-adolescent age group;
  • Has sudden, unusual difficulty with toilet habits;
  • Experiences pain or itching, bruises or bleeding in the genital area;
  • Has torn, stained, or bloody clothing.

Child's Behavior - Possible Indicators of Sexual Abuse

  • Suddenly refuses to change for gym or to participate in physical activities;
  • Demonstrates bizarre, sophisticated, or unusual sexual knowledge or behavior, particularly given the child's age;
  • Sexual victimization of other children;
  • Exhibits withdrawal, fantasy or infantile behaviors;
  • Poor peer relationships;
  • Aggressive or disruptive behavior, delinquency, running away or school truancy;
  • Any sudden change in behavior;
  • Self-injurious behaviors;
  • Suicide attempts;
  • Reports sexual abuse by caretaker;
  • Exaggerated fear of closeness or physical contact.

Parent's Behavior - Possible Indicators of Sexual Abuse

  • Very protective or jealous of child;
  • Encourages or forces child to engage in prostitution;
  • Encourages or forces sexual acts in the presence of caretaker;
  • Misuses alcohol or other drugs;
  • Is geographically isolated and/or lacking in social and emotional contacts outside the family;
  • Has low self-esteem.

Continue on to Chapter 2: Reporting Child Abuse and Maltreatment/Neglect