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Recognizing Abuse
Some signs of child abuse are more obvious than others. Here are some common signs of abuse:
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Has a child’s behavior changed? Do they experience fear, anxiety, depression, aggression or withdrawal?
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Is the child afraid to go home or to see certain individuals?
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Is a child showing overly sexualized behavior or using sexual language that is inappropriate for the child’s age?
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Have you noticed changes in a child’s sleeping patterns including frequent nightmares or difficulty falling asleep? Does the child look tired?
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Have you noticed changes in school performance and attendance, such as being unable to concentrate in class or frequent absences?
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Have a child’s eating habits changed leading to weight gain or loss?
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Do you see signs of visible unexplained injuries such as burns, bruises, or broken bones?
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Is a child using drugs or alcohol?