PHYSICAL

What is physical abuse?

Definition:

The intentional, non-accidental physical injury to a child inflicted by a parent, guardian or other person responsible for the child's welfare on a temporary or permanent basis.

INCLUDES, BUT IS NOT LIMITED TO:

*Slapping

*Punching

*Shaking

*Hair pulling

*Hitting

*Kicking

*Biting

*Choking

Signs of physical abuse:

*Unexplained burns, bites, bruises, broken bones, or black eyes

*Fading bruises or other marks noticeable after an absence from school

*Seems frightened of the parents and protests or cries when it is time to go home from school

*Shrinks at the approach of adult

*Reports injury by a parent or another adult caregiver

*Bruises or welts that regularly appear after absence, weekends, or vacations

*Bruises or welts that reflect the shape of article used to inflict the injury (belt buckle, electric cord, etc)

*Unexplained bruises and welts on face, lips, mouth, torso, back

*Bruises or welts that reflect the shape of article used to inflict the injury (belt buckle, electric cord, etc)

*Unexplained burns from cigarettes or cigars

*Burns in the pattern of a electric burner or iron

*Immersion burns from hot liquids

*Unexplained fractures/dislocations to skull, nose, facial structure