Other Reasons for Investigation
Exposure to Domestic Violence
Exposure to domestic violence occurs when a child witnesses or is otherwise exposed, directly or indirectly, to physical, sexual, emotional, or psychological harm between current or former intimate partners or spouses. This can take several forms, including:
- Witnessing violent acts: A child may see physical altercations, such as hitting, pushing, or other aggressive behavior between adults in the household.
- Hearing violent acts: A child may overhear shouting, threats, or the sounds of physical violence, even if they are in a different room.
- Seeing the aftermath of violence: This includes observing injuries, such as bruises or other signs of harm on one of the caregivers, or seeing damaged property resulting from the conflict.
- Being informed of violence: A child may be told about incidents of violence by one or both caregivers or hear about it through others in the household.
Children exposed to domestic violence may experience fear, confusion, guilt, or anxiety and are at an increased risk of developing emotional, behavioral, or social difficulties.
Adept Investigations Agency: Your Partner in Investigations
Let Us Help You:
If you’re worried about your child’s safety while in the custody of a spouse or legal guardian, our team of private investigators is here to provide the support you need. Divorce and custody disputes can reveal serious concerns, and our investigators are highly skilled in uncovering evidence to identify and assess potential risks to your child. Your child’s safety is our top priority, and we are dedicated to helping you protect them from any abusive or harmful situations.
Physical Child Abuse
Physical child abuse occurs when a parent, caregiver, or other person in charge deliberately causes physical harm or injury to a child. It may also result from a failure to provide adequate supervision or from a repeated pattern of neglectful behavior.
Examples of Physical Abuse
- Beating
- Slapping
- Hitting
- Pushing
- Throwing
- Shaking
- Burning
Signs a Child May Be Physically Abused
- Burns, bite marks, cuts, bruises, or welts shaped like objects
- Fear of adults or reluctance to go home
- Injuries that appear inconsistent with the explanation given
What Is Neglect?
Neglect occurs when a child’s parent or caregiver fails to meet the child’s physical, developmental, emotional, or psychological needs.
Examples of Neglect
- Failing to provide:
- Proper food
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Supervision
- A safe and clean home
- Necessary medical care
- Withholding emotional support, love, and affection
Signs a Child May Be Neglected
- Wearing clothing unsuitable for the weather
- Being dirty, unbathed, or having poor hygiene
- Frequent hunger or lack of adequate nutrition
- Lack of proper supervision or care
CHILD ABUSE SCREENING TOOL
Physical Child Abuse
Physical child abuse occurs when a parent, caregiver, or other person in charge deliberately causes physical harm or injury to a child. It may also result from a failure to provide adequate supervision or from a repeated pattern of neglectful behavior.
Examples of Physical Abuse
- Beating
- Slapping
- Hitting
- Pushing
- Throwing
- Shaking
- Burning
Signs a Child May Be Physically Abused
- Burns, bite marks, cuts, bruises, or welts shaped like objects
- Fear of adults or reluctance to go home
- Injuries that appear inconsistent with the explanation given
What Is Neglect?
Neglect occurs when a child’s parent or caregiver fails to meet the child’s physical, developmental, emotional, or psychological needs.
Examples of Neglect
- Failing to provide:
- Proper food
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Supervision
- A safe and clean home
- Necessary medical care
- Withholding emotional support, love, and affection
Signs a Child May Be Neglected
- Wearing clothing unsuitable for the weather
- Being dirty, unbathed, or having poor hygiene
- Frequent hunger or lack of adequate nutrition
- Lack of proper supervision or care
Sexual Abuse:
Sexual abuse occurs when a parent, caregiver, or any other individual in a position of trust sexually molests, exploits, or uses a child for sexual purposes. It can also involve knowingly failing to protect a child from sexual harm.
Examples of Sexual Abuse:
- Any sexual act between an adult and a child, including intercourse
- Fondling or inappropriate touching
- Exposing a child to adult sexual activity, whether in person, in media, or online
- Sexual exploitation through child prostitution or child pornography
Impact:
Children who experience sexual abuse may suffer from long-term psychological trauma, trust issues, and difficulty forming healthy relationships. Prompt intervention and support are essential.
Emotional Abuse
Emotional abuse involves actions or neglect by a parent, caregiver, or authority figure that cause emotional harm or fail to protect a child from emotional harm. This form of abuse often results in significant damage to a child’s mental health, self-esteem, and overall well-being.
Examples of Emotional Abuse:
- Verbal Abuse:
- Yelling, screaming, threatening, or bullying a child
- Humiliating the child, name-calling, or making degrading comparisons
- Statements like “You’re worthless,” “You’re bad,” or “Having you was a mistake”
- Neglect of Emotional Needs:
- Showing little to no physical affection, such as hugs or comforting gestures
- Failing to express words of love or affirmation (e.g., “I love you” or “I’m proud of you”)
- Withdrawing attention or giving the child the “cold shoulder”
- Harmful Actions or Environments:
- Confining a child to a dark room, closet, or tying them to furniture for long durations
- Exposing the child to violent behavior, including the physical abuse of others
Effects of Emotional Abuse on Children:
- Signs of severe anxiety, depression, or withdrawal
- Display of self-destructive or aggressive behaviors
- Noticeable delays in physical, emotional, or mental development
Final Note:
Recognizing the signs of sexual or emotional abuse is the first step in preventing further harm. If you suspect a child is being abused, it is crucial to report it to the appropriate authorities and ensure the child receives the care and support they need.