Direct Indicators of Abuse

How are you likely to find out about a child who is being abused? In some instances the child will disclose the abuse to you. However, this is not always common as children are often threatened not photo of teenage boy looking pensive to tell or may not even realize that what is occurring is abusive. Children may be too young, fearful, embarrassed, ashamed or naïve to report the occurrence of abuse. Research has found that in sexual abuse cases, only 25% of children are likely to disclose. Disclosure may be made by the child’s peer, a relative or concerned person. Children rarely lie about abuse or neglect once it comes out. However, later they may deny or change their story to avoid embarrassment, escape punishment, or avoid disapproval at home.