Signs of Abuse in a Child

Child abuse has devastating consequences that can impact a child’s physical, behavioral, emotional, and mental health for the rest of their lives. Child abuse can take many forms, including physical, sexual, emotional abuse, and neglect, and is commonly perpetrated by someone the child knows and trusts, often a parent or family member.

Understanding the common warning signs of abuse can help ensure reports are accurate. If you suspect child abuse, contact the proper authorities, and report the abuse.

Behavioral Cues of Child Abuse

The behavioral cues of child abuse can manifest in various ways. The following behaviors are common among children who suffer from abuse.

• Withdrawal from friends, usual activities, and school performance changes
• Aggressive or hostile behavior, hyperactivity, or rebellious behavior
• Depression, anxiety, fear, or lack of self-confidence
• Sleep problems
• Frequent absences from school
• Self-harm or suicidal
• Desperate need for affection
• Loss of previously acquired developmental skills, such as frequent bed-wetting.
• Lack of personal hygiene
• Food hoarding or stealing

Physical Symptoms of Child Abuse

Child abuse commonly has a physical impact on a child in some way. It is crucial to identify these injuries, particularly if they don’t match the given explanation. From unexplained injuries to poor health from neglect, the following physical symptoms may indicate child abuse:

• Unexplained injuries, especially in areas that are usually covered by clothing, such as the back, buttocks, and thighs
• Bruises in various stages of healing
• Broken bones that can’t be explained by accidents or falls
• Burns, particularly on the hands, feet, or buttocks, or those that are shaped like an object.
• Head injuries
• Malnourishment or dehydration
• Delayed or improper medical treatment

Accused of Child Abuse?

Understanding and properly identifying warning signs of abuse in a child is essential. False claims of child abuse can be detrimental to a child, the accused, and their families.

In some cases, child abuse is falsely reported, misrepresented, or accidental. Whether accusations stem from a heated child custody battle or a disagreement in how you disciplined your child, being accused of child abuse is a serious and devastating situation that requires immediate action.

A child abuse conviction can result in severe penalties, including prison time, monetary fines, and the loss of parental rights. It is crucial to have a skilled criminal defense attorney on your side who can guide you through the legal system and protect your rights.

Contact Our Nashville Criminal Defense Lawyers

At Andrew C. Beasley, PLLC, our experienced defense attorney will thoroughly investigate the allegations against you, gather evidence, and prepare a strong defense on your behalf. Our defense team will work tirelessly to dispute the prosecution’s evidence and challenge any false or misleading claims.

With our reputable criminal defense attorney in Nashville, TN, you can trust that you have an ally fighting on your behalf. We’re here to help you every step of the way and will advocate for you until your case is resolved.

Don’t let false allegations of child abuse ruin your life. Contact Andrew C. Beasley today to schedule a free case review.