There is a lot of emphasis on preventing child abuse in Texas, and laws exist to criminalize any emotional, physical or sexual abuse of minors. Additionally, the law requires anyone with knowledge of abuse to alert the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Unfortunately, amid all the suspicion and accident-prone tendencies of kids, some innocent parents face child abuse charges.
The Law Offices of Robert Gregg can help you prepare a legal defense if the courts charge you with neglecting a minor or abusing a child. Call (214) 891-7536 to schedule an appointment with a criminal attorney in Dallas today.
While it is true that many children do suffer terrible abuse, accidents still happen, and a sudden injury does not mean intentional harm. Read on for 10 signs that could point to child abuse, but keep in mind that the child will frequently display several signs at once, and it usually occurs over a prolonged period of time:
- Unexplained Injuries
Abused children usually carry telltale signs on their bodies, and in most cases, explanations of the injuries are not very convincing. Unexplained burns, bruises and swelling are common.
- Behavior Changes
A sudden change in behavior is a common indicator of child abuse. Abused children tend to withdraw and become anxious, scared, depressed or aggressive.
- Behavior Regression
Children that are victims of abuse often regress to earlier behaviors like bed wetting, thumb sucking, and fear of strangers or the dark. Some even forget learned language and memory skills.
- Fear of Home
Most abuse sufferers display obvious anxiety or apprehension about leaving school or going home. Often, they are nervous about going places with their abusers.
- Appetite Changes
An abused child may develop new eating behaviors from the fear, stress and anxiety so common in victims. Many gain weight, though others lose weight.
- Disturbed Sleeping
Frequent nightmares are extremely common in abused children, and some have trouble falling asleep at night. A child who is constantly tired or fatigued may be suffering from abuse.
- Changes in School Attendance and Performance
One of the most obvious signs of child abuse is frequent school absences. In many cases, adults attempt to hide the child’s injuries from teachers. Additionally, abuse victims struggle to concentrate in class.
- Unkempt Appearance
Neglected and abused children often lack basic hygiene and personal care. They may be dirty, smelly and generally disheveled. Often they are not dressed for the weather, and they may be without sufficient clothing or shoes.
- Risky Behavior
Many older children who suffer abuse engage in risky behavior. Drug and alcohol abuse are common among teenage victims, and many carry illegal weapons.
- Sexual Awareness
Children who are victims of sexual abuse often display sexualized behavior that is inappropriate for their age. Their vocabulary frequently includes explicit sexual terms and language.
Some signs of abuse or violence are clear; others are subtler. If you suspect child abuse in any form, you should trust your instincts and alert the authorities.
Prevent Child Abuse Texas reminds readers that failure to report abuse can result in a fine of $1,000 or a jail sentence for 180 days. If you face child abuse charges, you should contact a criminal lawyer in Dallas as soon as possible. Call the Law Offices of Robert Gregg today at (214) 891-7536 for help.