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What are some Common Signs Of Abuse?

  • Neglect: Poor hygiene or unkempt appearance.

  • Fear: Avoidance of specific adults or general anxiety.

  • Physical Disruptions: Chronic eating or sleeping issues.

  • Low Self-Esteem: Negative self-image or withdrawal.

  • Behavioral Shifts: Aggression or inappropriate language.

 

These signs do not automatically mean abuse, but are signs to be aware of in children. 

What do I do if I suspect my child has experienced abuse? 

  • Make a report of abuse to DHR or Law Enforcement. 

  • Avoid asking to many questions.

  • Support is most important to your child. Allow them to speak and control the conversation. 

  • Work with your investigators to work through the investigative process. 

How do I report suspected Abuse? 

  • To report suspected child abuse: 

  • Contact the Department of Human Resources and make a report. You can do so anonymously. 

  • Contact your local law enforcement agency and make a report. 

  • Inform a Mandated Reporter, such as a social worker, doctor, teacher, therapist. 

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  • St. Clair County DHR: 205-812-2100

What do I need to know about Abuse? 

  • Abuse can happen to ANYONE. 

  • Nearly 700,00 children are abused in the United States each year. 

  • Most often - a child is abused by somebody they know. 

  • Disclosures of abuse should be taken seriously. Children seldom lie about abuse. 

  • Changes in behavior are one of the biggest indicators of something going on. 

  • Abuse is frightening and difficult to disclose. Children do not always disclose immediately. 

Common signs of Child Sexual Abuse? 

  • Sudden Secretive Behavior

  • Disclosures or Hints of Inappropriate Behaviors: "games" that include sexualized activities, "weird" games

  • Physical Signs: Sore genital areas, UTI's 

  • Regressive Behaviors: Uncommon bed wetting, thumb-sucking, clinginess

  • Avoidance: Avoiding certain places or people, fighting about not wanting to go places they used to enjoy. 

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These signs do not automatically mean abuse, but are signs to be aware of in children. 

What is my role as the caregiver after a report has been made? 

  • First and foremost - be there for your child. Trauma is a scary time for a family and difficult to navigate. 

  • Do not over question. Allow the forensic interviewers and law enforcement to gather the facts. 

  • Take care of yourself as well. This is also a difficult time for you 

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