1. Child Abuse and Neglect – What Is It?
Failure to provide for a child’s basic needs
Emotional abuse
Any pattern of behavior that impairs a child’s emotional development or sense of self-worth, including constant criticism, threats, and rejection.
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2. Child Abuse and Neglect – What Is It?
Physical abuse
Physical injury as a result of hitting, kicking, shaking, burning, or otherwise harming a child
Sexual abuse
Any situation where a child is used for sexual gratification; may include indecent exposure, fondling, rape, or commercial exploitation through prostitution or the production of pornographic materials
Copyright © Notice: The materials are copyrighted © and trademarked ™ as the property of The Curriculum Center for Family and Consumer Sciences, Texas Tech University.
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3. Child Abuse and Neglect – Why Does It Occur?
Research has identified many factors relating to the child, family, community, and society that are associated with an increased risk of child abuse and neglect.
Young mothers and fathers unprepared for raising a child
Overwhelmed single parents with little or no support
Families placed under stress by worries about employment, health, substance abuse, mental health, domestic violence, or simply not knowing how to meet their children’s basic needs
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Copyright © Notice: The materials are copyrighted © and trademarked ™ as the property of The Curriculum Center for Family and Consumer Sciences, Texas Tech University.

4. Child Abuse and Neglect – What Are the Consequences?
Research shows that the effects of child abuse and maltreatment can last a lifetime. The long-term effects can be physical, psychological, or behavioral.
A history of child abuse or neglect has been associated with increased risk of:
Developmental disabilities and learning problems
Social problems with other children and with adults
Alcohol and other drug use
Substance abuse
Mental illness
Teen pregnancy
Domestic violence
Chronic illnesses
Lack of success in school
Copyright © Notice: The materials are copyrighted © and trademarked ™ as the property of The Curriculum Center for Family and Consumer Sciences, Texas Tech University.
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5. Child Abuse and Neglect – What Are the Warning Signs?
The presence of a single sign does not prove child abuse is occurring; however, when these signs appear repeatedly or in combination, you should consider the possibility of abuse or maltreatment.
Copyright © Notice: The materials are copyrighted © and trademarked ™ as the property of The Curriculum Center for Family and Consumer Sciences, Texas Tech University.
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6. Child Abuse and Neglect – What Are the Warning Signs?
Maltreatment/Abuse Type
Symptoms
Neglect
signs of malnutrition
poor hygiene
unattended physical or medical problems
Physical abuse
unexplained bruises, burns, or welts
child appears frightened of a parent or
caregiver
Sexual abuse
pain, bleeding, redness, or swelling in anal or
genital area
age-inappropriate sexual play with toys, self,
or others
age-inappropriate knowledge of sex
Emotional Abuse
extremes in behavior, ranging from overly
aggressive to overly passive
delayed physical, emotional, or intellectual
development
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Copyright © Notice: The materials are copyrighted © and trademarked ™ as the property of The Curriculum Center for Family and Consumer Sciences, Texas Tech University.

7. Child Abuse and Neglect – Reporting
Anyone can and should report suspected child abuse or neglect.
Reporting the situation may protect a child and get additional help for the family.
Most states have a toll-free number for reporting abuse.
Texas Hotline Number
Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline
( A-CHILD)
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Copyright © Notice: The materials are copyrighted © and trademarked ™ as the property of The Curriculum Center for Family and Consumer Sciences, Texas Tech University.