Emotional abuse can be the most difficult to identify and prove. Behavioural indicators severe depression extreme withdrawal or aggressiveness overly compliant, too well mannered, too neat or clean extreme attention seeking displays extreme inhibition in play Physical indicators bed wetting that is non-medical in origin frequent psychosomatic complaints, headaches, nausea, abdominal pains child fails to thrive Neglect Most caregivers do not intend to neglect their children. It usually results from ignorance about appropriate care for children or an ability to plan ahead. Neglect occurs when a caregiver fails to provide basic needs such as adequate food, sleep, safety, supervision, clothing or medical treatment. Physical abuse Physical abuse is any harm to a child caused by an action or omission of action by the child's caregiver.
Physical abuse can be one or two isolated incidents or can occur over a prolonged period of time.
Most parents love their children and want nothing but the best for them. However, anyone who has cared for children knows it is a big responsibility and a lot of work and there are times when the stress can become too much. Often, there are not any family or friends to help out. Parents who are very young and immature often do not understand their child's behaviour. Parenting is one of the most important jobs we ever do and yet most of us are not taught how to be a parent.