Warning Signs of a Child Abuser

Some behaviors of an adult who is a caregiver or who interacts frequently with a child may indicate that the adult is abusive. If you observe worrying signs, it does not necessarily indicate that the individual is an abuser; however, you should consider them a serious warning that warrants further investigation. If you suspect abuse, contact your local child protective services department for support and advice on what to do.

  1. Recognizing Abuse

    • Child abuse can happen at home, school, daycare or any setting your child is in. By catching warning signs and intervening, you may be able to prevent or stop abuse. Look for any extreme behavior toward the child. A caregiver who is negative, indifferent or overly protective may be an abuser, but the child can also give signs that indicate abuse. For example, a child who seems nervous around adults or who stays late at school and seems reluctant to go home may be suffering abuse.

    Signs of Sexual Abuse

    • Warning signs that a person may abuse children sexually include an excessive interest in or talking about sex, especially around or to children. Downloading child pornography or talking about sexual fantasies involving children may indicate sexual abuse. Less obvious signs include an adult who is socially withdrawn or secretive and overtly protective of the child, especially around members of the opposite sex.

    Neglect and Emotional Abuse

    • Neglect can be emotional or physical and occurs when the caregiver is not meeting the child's needs. A caregiver who does not take the child to the doctor, refuses help for the child or is indifferent -- not hugging, touching or talking to the child -- may be neglecting the child. Signs of emotional abuse include acting negatively toward the child, such as belittling, blaming or rejecting. Extreme demands, such as demanding unreasonably high academic or behavioral performance, may also indicate emotional abuse.

    At-Risk Signs

    • Caregivers who are under severe stress may be at risk for abusing children. Depression and other mental problems, unemployment, a family death or health crisis may put individuals at risk for becoming abusers. Caregivers who abuse drugs and alcohol show an inability to deal with their own life situation and may also have a hard time caring for a child. If you or someone you know may be at risk for child abuse, be proactive and seek help and support before the abuse happens. Many abusers were abused themselves, and the abuser may need counseling and rehabilitation to stop abusing again.

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