SIGNS OF EMOTIONAL MALTREATMENT

Consider the possibility of emotional maltreatment when the child:

• Shows extremes in behavior, such as overly compliant or demanding behavior, extreme passivity or aggression;
• Is either inappropriately adult (parenting other children, for example) or inappropriately
• infantile (frequently rocking or head-banging, for example);
• Is delayed in physical or emotional development;
•  Has attempted suicide; or
• Reports a lack of attachment to the parent.

Consider the possibility of emotional maltreatment when the parent or other adult caregiver:

• Constantly blames, belittles, or berates the child;
• Is unconcerned about the child and refuses to consider offers of help for the child's school  problems; or
• Overtly rejects the child.
  

To learn more about the signs of Physical Abuse, Neglect, and Sexual Abuse click on the links below.

• Signs of Physical Abuse

• Signs of Neglect

• Signs of Sexual Abuse