What are the signs that a child is being abused?
Children often show us rather than tell us that something is upsetting them. There may be many reasons for changes in their behaviour, but if we notice a combination of worrying signs it may be time to call for help or advice. What to watch out for in children: • Acting out in an inappropriate sexual way with toys or objects. • Nightmares, sleeping problems. • Becoming withdrawn or very clingy. • Personality changes, seeming insecure. • Regressing to younger behaviours, e.g. bedwetting. • Unaccountable fear of particular places or people. • Outburst of anger. • Changes in eating habits. • Physical signs, such as, unexplained soreness or bruises around genitals, sexually-transmitted diseases. • Becoming secretive.
