Behavior Indicators of an Abused Child

Be Aware of Behavior Indicators of Abuse:
For more information on Abuse Indicators, please visit
  United Way
on the web:

www.unitedwaytarrant.org

• Wary of adult contacts
• Apprehensive when other children cry
• Behavior extremes: aggressive to withdrawn
• Frightened of parents
• Afraid to go home
• Reports of injury by parents
• Begging or stealing food
• Extended stays at school
• Constantly falling asleep in class
• Alcohol or drug abuse
• Delinquency
• Statement by child of "no caregiver"
• Unwilling to change for gym or participate in P.E.
• Withdrawal, fantasy or infantile behavior
• Bizarre, sophisticated or unusual sexual behavior/knowledge
• Poor peer relationships
• Runs away
• Reports sexual assault by caregiver
• Eating disorders
• Overly adult behavior
• Developmental lags
• Attempted suicide