Long Island, Manhattan Accident Attorney Blog

Parents Need to Recognize the Warning Signs of Child Abuse

Childhood should be a carefree time – a time to play and learn.  However, for many children it is a dark and scary time in their lives, as they find themselves victims of child abuse.  As a parent, you need to be aware of the warning signs of child abuse and molestation, so that you can protect your child.

Child abuse is often difficult to recognize, as many abusers are good at hiding the evidence and manipulating the child.  Abusers are often those who are closest to the family and may include priests, caregivers, teachers, coaches and relatives.  These are people your family has trusted and they should be held accountable for their horrific actions against your child.

According to the Child Welfare Information Gateway, the first step in helping an abused child is to recognize the signs of child abuse.  It is important to note that one sign does not necessarily mean your child is being abused, so you need to evaluate the entire situation.

Warning signs of physical abuse of a child include unexplained injuries, such as burns, broken bones, bites, bruises and black eyes.  If your child is the victim of physical abuse he or she may also cry around a certain adult or make comments regarding injuries caused by an adult.

The signs of molestation or sexual abuse are a little different than physical abuse.  A child who is being molested may have trouble walking or sitting, wet the bed, experience a change in appetite, refuse to participate in physical activities, have nightmares or run away from home.  If a child has an unusual or advanced knowledge of sexual activities, it can also be an indication of sexual abuse.

If you discover that your child has been abused, you can go after the abuser for compensation for pain and suffering and other emotional scars.  Contact Rappaport, Glass, Greene & Levine for expert legal advice at (800) 734-9445.

The article, “Know the Signs of Child Abuse,” has more information on this topic.