subject: How to Tell if Abuse is Occurring [print this page] How to Tell if Abuse is Occurring How to Tell if Abuse is Occurring
How to Tell if Abuse is Occurring
Parents, teachers and caregivers should be asking how they can tell if some form of abuse is occurring. The abuse could be happening in the lunchroom, school yard, anywhere; it can be molestation, kicking, biting, intimidation, bullying abuse can take many forms.
Watching and observing them around particular people and situations is one sure way to spot something that may not be normal and is causing the child to act differently.
Behavior is always the key; whether they suddenly become aggressive or compulsive about something its an indication that they are looking for some sort of control because something else which is not in their control is affecting him/her.
For example, girls who are being or have been sexually molested or abused often become anorexic and/or bulimic. Its because that is the one thing they can control; albeit not a healthy way to control but to that person its logical.
So always look to behavior as the #1 indicator that everything is all right or that something may be going on that is affecting your child.
It would be wise to instruct your child that grownups dont need help from young children to find missing puppies, kittens or balls, or anything else. If a grownup needs help he/she should ask another grownup.
Teach your children to model safe behavior by modeling safe behavior yourself; be aware of your surroundings and people near you. Do a self check and teach your child to do that. Ask yourself if you feel uneasy, ishy, or funny and teach your child to do the same.
And if your child feels any of the above he/she will know and tell them that its OK to scream get away, dont touch me or help at the person he/she doesnt trust.
If youd like to order the book Boundaries and receive the free pamphlet Ive written The A to Zs of teaching young children please go to www.ladaps.net and click on Boundaries.
