| |
 |
  |
 |
| |
 |
Section: Child Abuse & Neglect / Indicators | |
|
|
|
Indicators
Although Ohio law permits corporal punishment in the home, school, and institution, excessive physical discipline is abuse. Physical discipline probably is excessive if:
It results in physical injury, including bruises
The injuries are in particularly sensitive locations (eyes, genitals)
It is inconsistent, arbitrary punishment designed not to educate, but to instill fear
The caretaker loses control during discipline
It is inappropriate to the age of the child
It is the result of unreasonable expectations or demands on the child by
the caretaker |
|
|
|
|
Recognizing Physical Abuse
Physical Indicators
Unexplained, chronic, or repeated bruising:
On the face, throat, upper arms, buttocks, thighs, or lower back in unusual patterns or shapes which suggest the use of an instrument
On an infant
In the shape of bite or pinch marks
In clusters
In various stages of healing
Unexplained burns:
Cigarette, immersion, rope burns
Burns in the shape of common household utensils or appliances
Unexplained skeletal injuries:
Any skeletal injury of an infant
Injury to the facial structure, skull, and bones around the joints
Fractures and dislocations caused by a severe blow or twisting/pulling of the arm or leg
Other unexplained or repeated injuries:
Lacerations, abrasions, welts, scars, and other unexplained marks
Missing, chipped or loose teeth or other oral injury
Loss of hair/bald patches
Broken eardrum
Abdominal injuries
Behavioral Indicators
Behavioral extremes
Inappropriate or excessive fear of parent or caretaker
Unusual shyness, wariness of physical contact
Substance abuse, truancy, running away
Reluctance to return home
Belief that punishment is deserved
Suggestion that other children should be punished in a harsh manner
Victim's disclosure of abuse
Depression, excessive crying
Unbelievable or inconsistent explanation for injuries
Attempt to hide injuries
Recognizing Sexual Abuse
Physical Indicators
Somatic complaints, including pain and irritation of the genitals
Sexually transmitted disease
Pregnancy
Bruises or bleeding from external genitalia, vagina, or anal region
Genital discharge
Torn, stained, or bloody underclothes
Frequent, unexplained sore throats, yeast or urinary infections
Bed wetting
Behavioral Indicators
Victim's disclosure of sexual abuse
Poor peer relationships, inability to relate to children of same age
Regressive behaviors (ex. Bedwetting, thumb sucking)
Sudden changes in behavior
Promiscuity or seductive behavior
Aggression or delinquency
Truancy or chronic running away
Substance abuse
Difficulty in walking or sitting
Preoccupation with sexual organs (child's own or others)
Recurrent nightmares, disturbed sleep patterns or fear of the dark
Sudden decline in school performance
Unusual age-inappropriate interest in sexual matters
Age-inappropriate ways of expressing affection
Avoidance of undressing or wearing extra layers of clothes
Self-injury
Recognizing Neglect
Physical Indicators
Poor hygiene
Unsuitable clothing; missing key articles of clothing such as underwear, socks, shoes, or coat
Untreated illness or injury
Height and weight significantly below age level ;
Behavioral Indicators
Chronic school absence
Chronic hunger, tiredness, or lethargy
Begging or collecting leftovers
Assuming adult responsibilities
Reporting no caretaker at home
|
| |
 |
|
|
|
© 2005 CARE House. All Rights Reserved |
| | |
