Crime Prevention : Safety Tips
Help Stop Child Abuse
These are some warning signs to look out for:
Physical signs on the child:
- Bruises, scratches, cuts, scalds and burns.
- Malnutrition as a result of not enough food which could
indicate neglect, and
- An excessively dirty and unkempt child, skin infections,
nappy rashes, and poor hygiene.
Behavioral signs:
- Aggression which may have been learnt from parents or may
be an expression of anger towards an adult who is a “safer”
target;
- Withdrawal. A physical abused child may show physical
withdrawal or flinching when approached by adults, especially
if reprimanded or shown affection.
Passivity:
- Passivity or watchfulness by the child, a guarded
watchfulness if expecting trouble;
- Anxiety, fear, sadness, defiance, overly responsible (the
perfect child); and
- Inappropriate sexual activity, precocious development.
How would you know if a child is being abused? Delays
as a result of injury.
Family signs
- Terrorising children, threats of consequences;
- Inappropriate discipline, with regard to severity or
frequency;
- Humiliation;
If you suspect a child is being
abused, report it to the police and the Child Protection Unit,
or to a social worker at one of the child and family welfare
agencies.
If the abuse is obviously severe,
then report to Lifeline, Child Line and the Child Emergency Line
will also guide you and lessen your fears.
CRIME STOP NUMBER 08600 10111.
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