What is Child Abuse?
mistreatment of a child by a
parent or guardian, including neglect, beating, and/or sexual molestation.
Warning Signs of Physical Abuse:
Physical signs.
Sometimes physical abuse has clear warning signs, such as unexplained
bruises, welts, or cuts. While all children will take a tumble now and
then, look for age-inappropriate injuries, injuries that appear to have a
pattern such as marks from a hand or belt, or a pattern of severe
injuries.
Behavioral signs.
Other times, signs of physical abuse may be more subtle. The child may be
fearful, shy away from touch or appear to be afraid to go home. A child’s
clothing may be inappropriate for the weather, such as heavy, long sleeved
pants and shirts on hot days.
Caregiver signs.
Physically abusive caregivers may display anger management issues and
excessive need for control. Their explanation of the injury might not ring
true, or may be different from an older child’s description of the injury.
Warning Signs of Sexual Abuse:
Behavioral signs.
Does the child display knowledge or interest in sexual acts
inappropriate to his or her age, or even seductive behavior? A child might
appear to avoid another person, or display unusual behavior- either being
very aggressive or very passive. Older children might resort to
destructive behaviors to take away the pain, such as alcohol or drug
abuse, self-mutilation, or suicide attempts.
Physical signs. A child may have trouble
sitting or standing, or have stained, bloody or torn underclothes.
Swelling, bruises, or bleeding in the genital area is a red flag. An STD
or pregnancy, especially under the age of 14, is a strong cause of
concern.
Caregiver signs. The caregiver may seem to
be unusually controlling and protective of the child, limiting contact
with other children and adults. Again, as with other types of abuse,
sometimes the caregiver does not give outward signs of concern. This does
not mean the child is lying or exaggerating.
What
Conduct is Inappropriate with a Child?
-Prolonged touching/rubbing/fondling
-Holding hands
-Assisting the Child in the Bathroom
-Hitting/Popping/Slapping/Beating/Grabbing the child
-Shouting or Aggressively Yelling at the Child
-Threatening the Child
-Fornication or Intercourse with the Child
Reporting
Procedures for observed or suspected Misconduct:
Notify your
Children’s Pastor Immediately
