They may be withdrawn or, conversely, excessively angry and hostile. Abused children often have trouble performing well in school. They are especially susceptible to self-abuse through alcohol and drugs. Boys who have been abused are often hard to control, experiencing temper tantrums and getting into fights. They may threaten friends and teachers, destroy things, even harm their pets.
Girls tend to be more introverted, depressed, easily frightened, uneasy around adults.
Abused children may abuse younger children. Of course, victims may have physical scratches, bruises, or even broken bones. Abuse happens in all kinds of families and in all economic and societal groups. Although 95 percent of victims are female, both men and women can be abusers. They generally have low self-esteem.