Title: Child abuse: Types, signs, and reporting possible abuse
Headings: Recognizing child abuse
Recognizing child abuse
Fast facts on child abuse
Why is it important?
Physical abuse
Signs of physical abuse
Emotional abuse
Signs of emotional abuse
Sexual abuse
Signs of sexual abuse
Neglect
Signs and symptoms of neglect
Should I report this?
Tips for reducing the risk

Content: Signs of emotional abuse
Some of these signs may indicate that a child is experiencing emotional abuse: appearing withdrawn, anxious, or afraid
showing extremes in behavior, for example, compliance, passivity, or aggressiveness
lack of attachment to parent or caregiver
age-inappropriate behavior, for example, sucking a thumb
Sexual abuse
Sexual abuse is defined as any act that forces or entices a child or young person to participate in sexual activities. It is sexual abuse, even if the child does not understand what is happening and there is no force, violence, or even contact. If the child is forced or invited to participate in any activity that causes the other to be aroused, this is considered sexual abuse. Such activities may include: assault by penetration, such as rape or oral sex
non-penetrative sexual activities, such as touching outside of clothing, rubbing, kissing, and masturbating
watching others performing sexual acts or getting a child to watch such acts
looking at, showing, or sharing sexual images, videos, toys, or other material
telling dirty jokes or stories
forcing or inviting a child to undress for sexual gratification
“flashing” or showing one’s genitals to the child
encouraging the child to behave in a way that is sexually inappropriate
grooming, or preparing for future abuse or activity
The person who carries out the abuse may be an adult male, adult female, or another child, usually a teenager who has already reached puberty, although younger children may also carry out abuse. Signs of sexual abuse
Signs in the child that may indicate sexual abuse include: talking about being sexually abused
displaying sexual knowledge or behavior which is beyond their years, bizarre, or unusual
withdrawing from friends and others
running away from home
shying away from a specific person
having nightmares
wetting the bed after not doing so before
changes in mood or appetite
pregnancy or having a sexually transmitted disease (STD), especially before the age of 14 years
Physical signs that may indicate sexual abuse include difficulty walking or sitting down. Sexual abuse usually involves someone the child knows. Often, the child will be told to keep the relationship a secret.