Light the Truth: Spotting Child Victims in Need

According to the CDC, 1/4 of all girls and 1/13 of all boys are estimated to experience child abuse. This statistic is staggering, and speaks to the fact that this topic is one of utmost urgency. Child abuse happens every day and comes in many forms and shapes. It may seem like a problem too large to help, and while its true, no single person will end child abuse overnight, there is still much a single person can do to make a difference.

One of the major problems with child abuse is the fact that it is so easily hidden. Truth be told, most abuse is inflicted by parents, guardians, family, or friends of the abused. This can make it very challenging for the truth to be illuminated, either because there is a network of trust built around those individuals, or there is a shroud of secrecy around the home and the child's homelife. This can make it difficult to pinpoint what children are victims of abuse, but studies have shown several common signs that may help one figure out if a child may be a victim of abuse. These signs manifest themselves as behavioral patterns or physical / mental symptoms.

It may be no surprise to hear but many victims of abuse struggle in their education. A negative homelife brews a troublesome education experience with scattered attention, difficulty forming relationships of trust with others, and disruptive behavior. People in an education setting should be well aware and educated on these matters to help pinpoint children in need. Many times, children's behavior acts as a call for help, even if they don't realize it. It is why it is vital that if in an environment with children, professionals keep an eye out for children who may be troubled.

Another key symptom of children who are victims of abuse is substance abuse. This is something that peers, doctors, teachers, and others close to the child may be able to take notice of. In addition, children may turn to other methods of relief or coping such as self harm. Cutting is a very common form of expression amongst children who are victims of abuse.

There are several common physical and mental health diagnosis' that children who are victims of abuse can form due to the stress and mental toil their bodies are placed under. Symptoms include severe obesity, diabetes, heart disease, cancer, depression, depression, suicide attempts, and sexually transmitted infections. While these are not all signs that a common person may have access to uncovering, they are all pieces of the puzzle that healthcare providers, family, and family friends should all be aware of in efforts to help spot potential abuse.

Overall, child abuse is something that happens behind closed doors. It is up to us as individuals to keep an eye out on our circle. Even amongst our most trusted friends and family, it is vital to ensure we keep an open mind that abuse could be happening. But what is one's job once they learn about a child who could be a victim of abuse or is heavily suspected to? At that point, the responsibility falls on you to report the incident to the proper authorities. There are many options to take, such as contacting the child's health care provider, a local child welfare agency, the local police department, or contacting the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-422-4453 to take the next steps.