Child Abuse Pediatrics combats high number of abuse cases at Texas Children’s

April 8, 2014

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April marks Child Abuse Prevention month. The Child Abuse Pediatrics team hopes this is a reminder for all of us to pay attention to the signs of abuse and take action. Last year, more than 1,400 children who came through the Texas Children’s Hospital doors were identified as being abused or neglected. Twenty-six of them died as a result of suspected abuse or neglect. The CAP team relies on you, the staff, to take action.

Child maltreatment can take on many forms. While a list of indicators would be very long, here are some red flags to watch out for:

  • If a child tells you they are being mistreated, take action. Call the child abuse hotline to help make that child safer.
  • Sudden unexplained changes in child’s behavior (regressive, aggressive, or sexualized).
  • Unexplained burns, bites, bruises, or black eyes particularly to the head, neck, torso, buttocks and insides of the thigh.
  • A parent who shows little evidence of care or concern for the child, or even expresses that the child is a burden.
  • Parents who appear to be overwhelmed or use unusually harsh forms of discipline. Offer comfort and support instead of criticism.

Ways to prevent or stop child maltreatment include:

  • Share information regarding appropriate child development. This may reduce unrealistic parental expectations on a child.
  • Offer resources for parents struggling emotionally and physically. When provided in a supportive and helpful manner, most parents are appreciative. 2-1-1 is available in most communities, and is an excellent general resource.
  • Listen to children when they are talking about their lives. Stay calm and do not show emotional reactions. Many children who have been the victims of chronic maltreatment may not be able to correctly interpret your emotions.
  • Call Children’s Protective Services if you suspect child maltreatment. CPS exists to help families get stronger, while keeping children safe.