Track 16: Child Abuse, Neglect, and Non-Accidental Injuries

Child Abuse and Neglect Overview

• Refers to physical, emotional, or sexual harm and failure to provide basic needs to a child.

• It can occur in homes, institutions, or any setting where a child is dependent on adults.

• Often results in long-term psychological, emotional, and physical damage.

• Types of Child Abuse

• Physical Abuse: Intentional injury or harm (e.g., hitting, burning, shaking).

• Emotional Abuse: Verbal assaults, humiliation, rejection, or exposure to domestic violence.

• Sexual Abuse: Involvement of a child in sexual acts or exploitation.

• Neglect: Failure to provide food, shelter, medical care, education, or emotional support.

• Non-Accidental Injuries (NAI)

• Injuries inflicted intentionally rather than by accident.

• Common signs: bruises in unusual areas, burns, fractures at different healing stages, bite marks.

• Patterns of injury may not match the caregiver’s explanation.

• Warning Signs and Indicators

• Frequent unexplained injuries or inconsistent explanations.

• Fearful behavior toward parents or caregivers.

• Sudden behavioral changes, withdrawal, or aggression.

• Poor hygiene, malnutrition, or inappropriate clothing for weather.

• Developmental delays or regression.

• Risk Factors

• Parental substance abuse, mental illness, or history of violence.

• Family stress, poverty, or social isolation.

• Child with disability or special needs.

• Lack of social support or poor coping skills in caregivers.

• Healthcare Professional’s Role

• Identify suspicious injuries and behavioral signs.

• Maintain accurate documentation and history-taking.

• Report suspected cases to child protection services as per law.

• Provide medical, emotional, and social support to the child.

• Educate families on positive parenting and stress management.

• Prevention and Intervention

• Promote awareness and education on child protection.

• Strengthen family support systems.

• Early identification through routine screening.

• Collaboration between healthcare, education, and social services.