Physical Abuse
Any non-accidental injury to a child:
- scalding, burning and even death
- fractured bones, internal injuries, brain damage
- bruises, bites, beatings
- inappropriate discipline such as kicking, hitting with fist or object, throwing
the child, hair pulling, etc.
Physical Indicators
- Unexplained bruises and welts
- on face, lips, mouth
- on torso, back, buttocks, thighs
- in various stages of healing
- clustered, forming regular patterns
- reflecting shape of article used to inflict (electric cord, belt buckle)
- on several different surface areas
- regularly appear after absence, weekend or vacation
- Unexplained burns:
- cigar, cigarette burns, especially on soles, palms, backs, or buttocks
- immersion burns (sock-like, glove-like, doughnut shaped on buttocks or genitalia
- patterned like electric burner, iron, etc.
- rope burns on arms, legs, neck or torso.
- Unexplained fractures:
- to skull, nose, facial structure
- in various stages of healing
- multiple or spiral fractures
- Unexplained lacerations or abrasions:
- to mouth, lips, gums, eyes
- to external genitalia
Behavioral Indicators
- Wary of adult contacts
- Apprehensive when other children cry
- Behavioral extremes like aggressiveness or withdrawal
- Frightened of parents
- Afraid to go home
- Reports injury by parent
Physical Abuse | Emotional
Abuse | Sexual Abuse | Physical
Neglect | Emotional Neglect
Nature of Abuse | Reporting
Abuse in AZ | Asked About Issues
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