Child abuse isn’t just about black eyes. While physical abuse is shocking due to the marks it leaves, not all signs of child abuse are as obvious. Ignoring children’s needs, putting them in unsupervised, dangerous situations, exposing them to sexual situations, or making them feel worthless or stupid are also forms of child abuse and neglect and they can leave deep, lasting scars on kids.
The four major types of child abuse are:
Physical abuse
Sexual abuse
Emotional abuse
Neglect
Another type of abuse is child exploitation (distinct from sexual exploitation). This is the use of a child in work or other activities for the benefit of others. Child labor is an example of child exploitation for commercial reasons. Using a child in this way detracts from their own physical, mental, and social development.Regardless of the type of abuse, the result is serious emotional harm. But there is help available. If you suspect a child is suffering from abuse or neglect, it’s important to speak out. By catching the problem as early as possible, both the child and the abuser can get the help they need.
If you suspect child abuse, but aren't sure, look for clusters of the following physical and behavioral signs.
Some signs of physical abuse
Unexplained burns, cuts, bruises, or welts in the shape of an object
Bite marks
Anti-social behavior
Problems in school
Fear of adults
Drug or alcohol abuse
Self-destructive or suicidal behavior
Depression or poor self-image
Some signs of emotional abuse
Apathy
Depression
Hostility
Lack of concentration
Eating disorders
Some signs of sexual abuse
Inappropriate interest in or knowledge of sexual acts
Seductiveness
Avoidance of things related to sexuality, or rejection of own genitals or bodies
Nightmares and bedwetting
Drastic changes in appetite
Overcompliance or excessive aggression
Fear of a particular person or family member
Withdrawal, secretiveness, or depression
Suicidal behavior
Eating disorders
Self-injury
Sometimes there are no obvious physical signs of sexual abuse, and a physician must examine the child to confirm the abuse.
Some signs of neglect
Unsuitable clothing for weather
Being dirty or unbathed
Extreme hunger
Apparent lack of supervision
Penalties
The charge itself can be filed a misdemeanor or a felony (it is a “wobbler), depending upon the client’s prior criminal history, the injuries and the age of the child. Prosecutors often become quite zealous when the client inflicts an injury upon a vulnerable child.
If filed as a misdemeanor, the maximum penalty is one year in county jail, plus court fines up to $6,000 and restitution for any medical treatment to the child. If probation is granted, which is for a minimum of three years, there are special child abuse classes that one may be ordered to attend. A common other requirement of probation is significant community service, Cal-Trans or community labor and criminal protective order in favor of the child. If drugs or alcohol are involved, the client may be required to attend Alcoholic Anonymous meetings or Narcotics Anonymous meetings.
If the case is filed as a felony, the maximum sentence is six years in state prison and the minimum is two years in state prison. Probation may also be granted on similar terms as described for misdemeanor probation, but usually for five years with more classes and more community service, Cal-Trans or community labor, as well as AA and/or NA meetings. If someone has a prior conviction for child abuse in the prior ten years, there is a four-year sentence enhancement that applies, even to the minimum two-year term.
