If you would like to discuss or report child abuse, you may call (714) 940-1000 or (800) 207-4464, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Child Abuse is legally defined as:
- A physical injury, which is inflicted by other than accidental means on a child by another person.
- Sexual Abuse, including both sexual assault and sexual exploitation
- Willful cruelty or unjustifiable punishment of a child
- Cruel or inhuman corporal punishment or injury
- Neglect, including both severe and general neglect
Indicators of Child Abuse
Below are some signs that could be indicative of child abuse or that might help you recognize an existing or potential problem of abuse.
Physical Abuse
Physical abuse may be defined as any act that results in a non-accidental physical injury. Possible indicators or physcial abuse include:
- Bruises, burns, abrasions, lacerations, or swelling caused by other than accidental means
- Belt buckle marks, handprints, bite marks, and pinches
- Child states an injury was caused by abuse
- An injury that is unusual for a specific age group
- A history of previous or recurrent injuries
- Unexplained injuries or conflicting explanations or reasons for the an injury
- A child might be excessively passive, compliant, or fearful
- A caretaker attempts to hide a child’s injuries
Neglect
Neglect is the negligent treatment or maltreatment of a child by a parent or caretaker under circumstances indicating harm or threatened harm to the child's health or welfare. Possible indicators of neglect include:
- A child is lacking adequate medical or dental care
- A child is always sleepy or hungry
- A child is always dirty or inadequately dressed for weather conditions
- There is evidence of poor supervision
- Conditions in the home are extremely or persistently unsafe or unsanitary
Sexual Abuse
Sexual Abuse is defined as acts of sexual assault on and/or the sexual exploitation of minors. Possible indicators of sexual abuse include:
- A child reports sexual abuse or activities
- A child exhibits a detailed and age-inappropriate understanding of sexual behavior (especially by younger children)
- A child wears torn, stained, or bloody underclothing
- A child is the victim of other forms of abuse
(FAQ2323)
