Signs of child abuse can be subtle, and in many cases, nonexistent. Sudden changes in a child’s routine or new unexplained behaviors are worth a second look.

What to look for…

Physical warning signs

• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

• Signs of trauma to the genital area - unexplained bleeding, bruising, or blood on bed sheets

Behavioral signs

• Sexual behavior that is inappropriate for the child’s age

• Drastic changes in school performance or attendance

• Bedwetting or soiling the bed (if the child has already outgrown these behaviors)

• Not wanting to be left alone with certain people or being afraid to be away from primary caregivers, especially if this is a new behavior

• Tries to avoid removing clothing to change or bathe, or lack of care for personal hygiene

• Sudden changes in eating or sleeping patterns

Emotional signs

• Risk taking or inappropriate sexual behaviors

• Excessive talk about or knowledge of sexual topics

• Regressing to behaviors that they had grown out of (example: thumbsucking)

• Nightmares or fear of being alone at night

• Fear of going home

• Excessive worry or fearfulness

• Sudden changes in emotional behavior