The following is a list of possible warning signs of child abuse or neglect. (Note: the presence of any one warning sign does not automatically mean that the child is has been abused or neglected, and some warning signs overlap between types of abuse).
![Sad basketball player](/files/images/Sad_basketball_player_0.jpg)
Warning signs of possible emotional abuse
- Being more compliant and/or seeking affection more than usual
- Low self-esteem and/or low self-confidence
- Severe or sudden depression, anxiety, or aggression
- Difficulty making or keeping friends
- Delayed physical, emotional, and/or intellectual development
- Headaches or stomachaches with no medical basis
- Caregiver (or coach) who belittles the child, denies love or attention, and seems unconcerned about the child's problems or well-being
- Avoidance and/or fear of specific situations or people
Warning signs of possible physical abuse
- Frequent or unexplained injuries, such as bruises, scratches, , fractures, broken bones, bites, cuts, black eyes, and/or burns
- Explanations for injuries that do not make sense
- Specific patterns of burns, bruises, or other injuries that may suggest the use of an instrument or inappropriate physical contact
- Cigarette burns anywhere on the body
- Aggressive, disruptive, and/or destructive actions
- Abuse of pets or other animals
- Passive, withdrawn, and robot-like behavior
- Fear of going home or seeing parents or fear of participating in sports
- Injuries that appear after a child has not been at school or sports practice for several days
- Questionable clothing that may cover injuries to arms or legs