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Children who are victims of abuse must depend on the adults in their lives to pay attention to warning signs, believe them when they tell us something is wrong, and respond responsibly.
While no one indicator alone can tell you if a child is being abused or neglected, there are often perceptible warning signs that serve as indicators to caring adults in any child's life. In some cases there may be no outward signs beyond what a child reveals either verbally or behaviorally.
Signs of Physical Abuse:
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Bruises, welts, burns that cannot be sufficiently explained
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Injuries on places where children don't usually get hurt (the back, neck, back of legs, face)
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Repeated injuries
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Withdrawn, fearful or extreme behavior
Signs of Sexual Abuse:
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Difficulty walking or sitting
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Pain or itching in the genital area
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Torn, stained or bloody underclothing
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Frequent complaints of stomachaches or headaches
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Chronic depression
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Withdrawal
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Feeling threatened by physical contact
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Inappropriate sex play or premature understanding of sex
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Running away from home
Signs of Emotional Injury:
Signs of Neglect:
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Chronically dirty or unbathed
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Chronic school absences
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Dress inadequate for weather
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Left alone
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Left in the care of siblings too young to baby-sit
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Often fatigued - even falling asleep in school
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Hunger
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Self destructive feelings or behavior
Click below for information:
Signs & Symptoms of Abuse & Neglect
Handling Disclosures
Reporting Abuse & Neglect
Support & Healing Resources
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Berkshire County Kids' Place & Violence Prevention Center is a Children's Advocacy Center providing services to victims of child abuse and their non-offending family members. The Kids' Place is a Berkshire United Way agency and a full member of the National Children's Alliance.
Eligibility: Services at the Kids' Place are free and available to victims of child abuse, children who witness domestic violence and non-offending family members.
Hours: Monday-Thursday, 8:30 am to 7:00 pm, and Fridays, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm.
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