What are the Signs of Child Abuse?
Leonard Legal Group recently secured a $3 million settlement for a survivor of childhood sexual abuse following an eight-day trial in Bergen County Superior Court.
Our client was abused by his teacher, Howard Schultz, in the 1980s. The lawsuit held the Hillsdale Board of Education accountable for its failure to protect students.
Our client’s courage to come forward after decades of silence was extraordinary. His strength not only brought justice in his own case but also gave a voice to others who may still be suffering. It was an honor to represent him.
This case is a powerful reminder: justice delayed is not always justice denied.
Unfortunately, child abuse is a common occurrence. It is estimated that 1 in 7 children has been abused or neglected in the past year. In 2022, an average of five children per day died from abuse.
What’s even more unfortunate is that many of these cases are never prosecuted. Victims often stay quiet out of fear. They never share their trauma, which means the abuser never gets punished for their actions. The victim never gets the justice they deserve.
Have you or a loved one been abused? Sometimes it is hard to tell what abuse is. Here is a look at the signs of child abuse.
Child Abuse Symptoms
A child who has been abused is likely scared or ashamed. This means parents and other adults should look for signs of abuse such as:
- Withdrawal from friends or hobbies
- Changes in behavior or school performance
- Frequent absences from school
- Anxiety or depression
- Unusual fears
- Loss of self-confidence
- Sleep problems and nightmares
- Rebellious or defiant behavior
- Self-harm or attempts at suicide
Signs of physical or sexual abuse include:
- Unexplained injuries
- Pregnancy
- Sexually transmitted infection
- Genital or anal pain or injury
- Statements by the child that they were sexually abused
- Inappropriate sexual behavior with other children
Sometimes the parent’s behavior can be a red flag. Certain behaviors can signal abuse, such as the following:
- Showing little concern for the child’s well-being
- Failing to recognize or respond to the child’s distress
- Blaming the child for problems
- Belittling or calling the child names like “worthless” or “evil”
- Expecting the child to meet the parent’s emotional needs or showing jealousy over others receiving the child’s attention
- Using harsh physical punishment
- Pressuring the child to meet unrealistic academic or physical standards
- Isolating the child from others
- Giving inconsistent, vague, or no explanation for the child’s injuries
Contact Us Today
Sexual abuse is a common occurrence in schools, churches, nursing homes, and other places where you would not suspect it. A lot of these cases are ignored, so it takes a brave victim to stand up and seek justice for the abuse they have suffered.
The New Jersey sexual abuse lawyers at Leonard Legal Group are ready to help you take a stand. We can help you understand your legal options. Schedule a consultation today. Contact us via (973) 984-1414 or online here.