K to 12 Workers Family and friends Survivors
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Neglect

Home: Family & Friends: About Child Abuse: Recognising abuse & neglect

Physical indicators

  • Frequent hunger.
  • Malnutrition.
  • Poor hygiene.
  • Inappropriate clothing, for example, summer clothes in winter.
  • Left unsupervised for long periods.
  • Medical needs not attended to.
  • Abandoned by parents.

Possible behavioural indicators:

  • Stealing food.
  • Staying at school outside school hours.
  • Often being tired, falling asleep in class.
  • Abusing alcohol or drugs.
  • Displaying aggressive behaviour.
  • Not getting on well with peers.

The presence of indicators such as those described above may alert us to the possibility that a child is experiencing abuse. It is important that anyone who has concerns that a child or young person is in need of protection contacts the local Child Protection Victoria office for assistance and advice.

Sponsor

Department of Human Services

The South Eastern Centre Against Sexual Assault acknowledges the traditional Aboriginal owners of country throughout Victoria. We pay our respects to them, their culture and their Elders past, present and future.