Clues to Recognizing Physical Abuse

Physical Indicators

Unexplained, chronic, or repeated bruising.
on the face, throat, upper arms, buttocks, thighs, or lower back
in unusual patterns or shapes which suggest the use of an instrument
on an infant
in the shape of bite or pinch marks
in clusters
in various stages of healing
Unexplained burns
cigarette, immersion, rope burns
burns in the shape of common household utensils or appliances
Unexplained skeletal injuries
any skeletal injury of an infant
injury to the facial structure, skull, and bones around the joints
fractures and dislocations caused by a severe blow or twisting pr pulling of the arm or leg
Other unexplained or repeated injuries
lacerations, abrasions, welts, scars, and other unexplained marks
missing, chipped or loose teeth or other oral injury
loss of hair/bald patches
broken eardrum
abdominal injuries

Behavioral Indicators