Physical Abuse

Physical abuse is generally the most visible form of child abuse. It manifests in numerous forms from shaking an infant (aka Shaken Baby Syndrome), to inserting a child's hand in boiling water. Physical abuse can cause permanent injury and death. The statistics cited are from the Child Welfare Gateway.

What is physical abuse?

In 2008, of the various forms of abuse and neglect, 16% of child victims experienced physical abuse. Physical abuse is defined as a non-accidental physical injury to a child or an injury to a child that does not match the explanation. These injuries can range from minor bruises to bone fractures or death. Physical abuse injuries can result from punching, beating, kicking, biting, burning or otherwise harming a child. These injuries are considered abuse even when the caretaker did not intend to harm the child. Physical abuse can occur when a caretaker becomes frustrated and strikes, shakes or throws a child or inflicts unreasonable or severe punishment to a child. Although a child can experience injuries accidentally at play, abuse may be suspected if there is a pattern or frequency of occurrence of injuries.

Physical Indicators of Abuse

What can be done?

The longer abuse continues, the greater the potential for serious and long term emotional and psychological difficulties for the child. If you suspect a child is being abused, it should be reported to your local Child Protective Services Department (check your local yellow pages under child abuse). If a child is in immediate danger, please call the police. For crisis counseling, call ChildHelp at 1-800-4-A-CHILD.