Learn the signs
Signs are often there, but may not be obvious. You have to know what you’re looking for – signs can be physical, emotional or behavioral. Learn some of the most common signs of child abuse.
I’m a child, and something feels wrong
Tell an adult you trust if you:
- You feel icky inside
- Your stomach hurts
- Your heart starts to beat fast
- Your hands start to sweat
- You feel nervous or like you might throw up
- You feel like crying
- You feel sad all the time
- You don’t feel like yourself
I’m an adult, and a child
needs help
A child may need a trusted adult if they:
- Show signs of physical marks such as bruises, bites, burns, cuts, scratches or have unattended medical or dental problems
- Demonstrate poor hygiene or smell of urine or feces
- Seem inadequately dressed for the weather
- Experience sudden onsets of wetting or soiling in their pants or bed
- Cry without provocation
- Appear excessively tired or withdrawn
- Crave unusual amounts of attention, including aggressive, oppositional or defiant behaviors
Places to seek help
We understand asking for help may be hard. But we are here to support you on your healing journey to provide resources and hope for your future. Find a Child Advocacy Center near you.
Resources
Below are resources to support you or someone you know on their healing journey.
Social Media Toolkit
Download social media posts to share with your friends that you pledged to Be Someone.
Download
Videos
Watch these videos to help you understand signs of abuse, and to help talk about it to others.
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Books
Check out recommended books to help you and the children in your life understand signs of abuse.
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