The mistreatment of children can be in the form of neglect or abuse,
harmful things being done to them. Not meeting a child's basic
physical, medical, educational, and emotional needs is neglect. Actual
abuse may be physical, sexual, or emotional. Each year, more than
896,000 children are neglected or abused and 1400 die in the U S.
Child neglect and abuse often occurs with other forms of family
violence, such as spousal abuse. Child neglect and abuse can lead to
long-lasting problems, such as mental health problems and substance
abuse. Abuse often creates a cycle, with adults who were abused as
children being more likely to abuse their own children
Doctors and nurses are required by law to promptly report cases of
suspected child neglect or abuse to a local Child Protective Services
agency. Depending on the circumstances, the local law enforcement agency
may also be notified. All reported cases of child abuse are
investigated by representatives of the local Child Protective Services
agency, who determine the facts and make recommendations.
Physical Neglect: Physically neglected children may
appear undernourished, tired, or dirty or may lack appropriate clothing.
Their development may be slow.
Physical Abuse: Children who have been abused for a long
time are often fearful and irritable. They often sleep poorly. They may
be depressed and anxious. They are more likely to act in violent,
criminal, or suicidal ways. Bruises, burns, welts, or scrapes are common
signs of physical abuse. Severe injuries to the mouth, eyes, brain, or
other internal organs may be present but not visible - for example,
infants who have been shaken violently may have no visible signs of
injury and may appear to be sleeping deeply. There may be signs of old
injuries, such as broken bones, which have healed.
Emotional Abuse: In general, children who are
emotionally abused tend to be insecure and anxious and have low
self-esteem. Infants who are emotionally neglected may appear
unemotional or uninterested in their surroundings. They may lack social
skills or be slow to develop speech and language skills. Children who
are terrorized may appear fearful and withdrawn. They may be
distrustful, unassertive, and extremely anxious to please adults. They
may inappropriately reach out to strangers
Sexual Abuse: Changes in behavior, often abrupt, are
common. Children may become aggressive, withdrawn or develop
phobias/sleep disorders. They may behave in sexually inappropriate ways
for their age. Sexual abuse may also result in bruises, tears, or
bleeding in areas around the genitals, rectum, or mouth. Injuries in the
genital and rectal areas may make walking and sitting difficult. Girls
may have a vaginal discharge or a sexually transmitted disease