About Abuse

Findings that should be carefully evaluated for sexual abuse

• Any history or statement or witnessed incident consistent with sexual abuse.
• Most sexually abused children will not present with acute injuries or other material evidence. “Normal” does not mean “Nothing happened.”

Other situations that merit close inspection of children for abusive injuries:

• Adult violence, including domestic violence, in the home.
• Caretakers that are intoxicated (drugs or alcohol).

Note: A child may have findings suggesting more than one form of abuse or neglect.

More signs of sexual abuse, courtesy of American Academy of Pediatrics.
For additional information go to Child Safe at www.childsafe-sa.org.