Around four children a day in the U.S. die as a result of child abuse and neglect every day. An estimated 906,000 children are victims of domestic violence and abuse every year.
Last year, Congress passed the PROTECT Our Children Act, the legislation helps law enforcement track and prosecute sexual predators targeting children. The act is a victory and success in helping to keep our children safe, but it is not a one stop solution and guarantee. Knowing the warning signs of abuse are key for every adult in keeping our children safe from harm, awareness is the first step in prevention.
Know the 10 common signs of child abuse:
* Unexplained injuries. Visible signs of physical abuse may include unexplained burns or bruises.
* Changes in behavior. Abused children often appear scared, anxious, depressed, withdrawn or more aggressive.
* Returning to earlier behaviors. Abused children may display behaviors shown at earlier ages, such as thumb-sucking, bed-wetting, fear of the dark or strangers.
* Fear of going home. Abused children may express apprehension or anxiety about leaving school or about going places with the person who is abusing them.
* Changes in eating. The stress, fear and anxiety caused by abuse can lead to changes in a child’s eating behaviors, which may result in weight gain or weight loss.
* Changes in sleeping. Abused children may have frequent nightmares or have difficulty falling asleep, and as a result may appear tired or fatigued.
* Changes in school performance and attendance. Abused children may have difficulty concentrating in school or have excessive absences, sometimes due to adults trying to hide the children’s injuries from authorities.
* Lack of personal care or hygiene. Abused and neglected children may appear uncared for.
* Risk-taking behaviors. Young people who are being abused may engage in high-risk activities such as using drugs or alcohol or carrying a weapon.
* Inappropriate sexual behaviors. Children who have been sexually abused may exhibit overly sexualized behavior or use explicit sexual language.
Click here to learn the signs of child abuse and to pledge to take action.
Child Abuse and Neglect – Facts, Warning Signs of Abuse and How to Report It
Please also see;
If you suspect a child is in immediate danger contact law enforcement as soon as possible.
1-800-4-A-CHILD – Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline
1-888-PREVENT – Stop It Now
1-800-656-HOPE Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN)
