How to Recognize the Difference Between Abuse and a Normal Child

Child abuse falls into three categories: emotional abuse, neglect and physical abuse. Children who are emotionally abused are often called names, belittled or shamed, are often screamed and yelled at and have limited positive physical contact. A child who is neglected may not be provided the basic needs every child should be provided. Physical abuse is often times the most obvious type of abuse and can result from severe disciplinary habits or a deliberate attempt to hurt the child. All types of child abuse may be implemented by a parent or some other caretaker, such as a babysitter or relative.

A child who is physically abused may be very scared, because the child never knows when the abuser will be "set off" or what will set them off. Just like any abused individual, the child may feel like he or she is constantly walking on eggshells or having to be careful around the abuser. They may show fear of other adults or children if they believe that everyone is an abuser. Abused children will often be moody or attempt to assert their own sense of control in other situations outside of the abuse, such as with friends or in school. The child may focus their own sense of control over things such as eating (as in starving themselves or overeating) or other areas where they feel no one can control them. The child also may begin abusing other individuals either to "punish" someone else as they feel they have been punished or because they know no other way of life.

Sexual abuse is sometimes described as the hidden type of abuse, because it often happens behind closed doors and others do not know it's going on. The abuser will use shame or the idea that the child will "be in trouble" if they tell to keep the child from telling anyone. A sexually abused child will be literally tormented by shame and guilt regarding the situation.

Some children feel abused even if they are not and it is important to recognize the signs. Just because a parent disciplines a child, doesn't mean that the child is abused and not all parents use the same methods or even the most effective methods of discipline. Parenting is trial and error and may differ from child to child. Look for the warning signs of an abused child before pointing the finger. Warning signs include frequent physical injuries, which may be unexplained, a nervous child who is always "on alert", a child who shies away from physical contact, who is filthy or does not have clothing that fits properly, frequently misses school or seems to always be alone. Children who are sexually abused may have trouble sitting down or walking, may show an interest in sex and sexual acts, may seem to be avoiding a particular individual, may refuse to participate in physical activity or change clothes in front of others and may show signs of an STD at an early age (before the age of 14).