Trauma Injuries

Abuse & Neglect

A single act that results in the harm of a child is considered child abuse and neglect. Occasionally, the term "child maltreatment" is used because it encompasses both abuse and neglect. Children who are mistreated can suffer in numerous ways, and young children are especially vulnerable. They may have maturation problems or develop learning disabilities. These children are also likely to have low self-esteem and have difficulty trusting anyone. Being constantly frightened or agitated is common as well.

Children often fail to recognize that they are not to blame for the abuse or neglect that they are taking the brunt of. They often assume that the punishment they are receiving is due to some sort of misbehavior on their behalf.

Types of abuse and neglect

Although child abuse is classified as something that hurts a child, it does not necessarily mean it has to be of the physical sort; it can also be emotional and sexual too. Neglect is when a child is deprived of a necessity.

Physical abuse is the easiest kind to recognize and may incorporate striking, kicking, violent shaking, pinching, and burning. Wounds may be left such as bruises, lacerations, and other painful marks. Even worse, broken bones and internal injuries can do devastating damage.

Emotional abuse involves using words or actions that cause a child to feel unloved, useless, or unsafe. This can include berating, ignoring, failing to care for and offer support to the child. The scars left may be invisible, but the damage done is very real.

Sexual abuse is defined as sexual conduct between an adult and a minor or a younger child and older child. Exposing a child to pornographic material is also a form of sexual abuse.

Depriving a child of shelter, education, clothes, healthcare, or general protection that they require is deemed neglect. Neglect is just as serious as abuse and occurs even more frequently.