Sometimes it can be difficult to know if your instincts about child abuse and neglect are right. There are often behavioural or physical signs of stress when a child has been, or is experiencing abuse.

Some signs include:

• Distrust or wariness of adults
• Extreme behaviour – aggressive, submissive, anxious, distressed
• Low self-esteem, being withdrawn or having difficulty relating to adults or other children
• Being overly obedient and trying hard to please
• Difficulty concentrating

• Excessive rocking, humming, sucking or biting
• Bedwetting, frequent nightmares or sleeping difficulties (seeming tired and falling asleep at unusual times)
• Seeming to be ‘accident prone’ or having unexplained bruises or injuries at different stages of healing
• Explanations for injuries that are unbelievable, vague or don’t align with the type of injury

• Alcohol or drug abuse
• Suicidal tendencies
• Not wanting to go home (or somewhere else)
• Creating stories or artwork about abuse
• Inappropriate sexual knowledge or behaviour for the age and development of the child.