We also emphasize consistently and constantly the “red flags” of possible abuse or mistreatment. These “red flags” are actually several levels of indicators of distress in a child.
The first level might be called “risk factors.” We know that some children are more vulnerable than others to abuse. This does not mean it is their fault, far from it. It does mean that we must be even more vigilant for the welfare of children with these characteristics.
Children who have a previous history of abuse are more likely to be abused again. Those who do not have good support within the family or among peers and those who suffer with some form of emotional, cognitive or physical disability are more vulnerable to some form of mistreatment.
Our best role when we know of such children is to be alert and supportive. A supportive presence can make a big difference in the life of a wounded child. Alert “trusted adults” are like good shepherds.
The second level of “red flag” indicators is comprised of general signs that call us to look more deeply into the situation of the child. These general signs may be physical, emotional, social or behavioral in nature.
Many physical functions are much influenced by distress. When sleep or appetite is suddenly changed, for example, it is likely that something is wrong. If a child begins to wet the bed or have trouble with bowel control at an age when good control is expected and after a period in which good control was demonstrated, there is some problem that needs to be addressed.
More directly, a child who is fearful in general or who has very poor relationships with peers is a child who needs some encouragement to explore and change his or her perception of the world. Fears of being alone with a person or marked change in mood are somewhat more specific indicators that require our focused attention to determine what has happened.
Achievement and other behavioral changes also are “red flag” indicators of potential problems. A tendency toward impulsive or risky behavior, or difficulty paying attention, warrants our concern. Behaviors that cause specific harm to the self or a remarkable change in school achievement raise red flags and call for immediate follow-up.
While none of these indicators may mean a child is actually being abused, they do all point to a child who may be in trouble.
The third level of “red flag” indicators, however, points more directly to abuse. When these indicators are noted, a call to law enforcement is the very next step.
Indicators or sexual abuse include: unexplained pain or injury of genitalia; pregnancy or venereal disease; sexual knowledge unexpected at the child’s age; or sexual preoccupation in word or actions.
Indicators of physical abuse include: unexplained injuries; history of previous injuries at home; fear of going home; or fading bruises.
Indicators of neglect include: frequent need for food or for money to buy food; poor hygiene or clothing; lack of medical or dental care; or any other indication that point to basic needs not being met or to a lack of adult supervision.
When all is said and done, of course, the final “red flag” level and most reliable indicator of abuse is a report by a child that he or she has been abused. Whether or not the report turns out to be accurate, a report by the child should always be taken seriously and always should lead to making a report to law enforcement.
We emphasize in our Safe Environment Program training that whenever the indicators lead to a reliable suspicion of abuse, there is reason for investigation. That investigation, which is different from making a judgment, needs to be carried out by law enforcement, not the person who has the reasonable suspicion.
Referring to civil authorities to carry out the investigation results in a productive division of responsibilities and puts the investigation in the hands of persons trained to carry it out in a fair and balanced manner.
When the indicators are less specific and do not rise to the level of a reasonable suspicion of abuse, we emphasize that our parish and school staff and volunteers should share their observations with immediate supervisors or closest consultants so that with their assistance the indicator can be evaluated until it is clear what the next step should be.
When an investigation by law enforcement does not produce evidence of abuse, our responsibility to the child is not ended. Continued observation is critical because it may lead to further information and a supplemental report or corrective action.
For more information about signs of abuse, check out this pamphlet:
Recognizing Child Abuse and Neglect: Signs and Symptoms. Child Welfare Information Gateway, June 2007. www.childwelfare.gov/pubs/factsheets/signs.cfm
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