Child abuse - physical

Alternative Names

Treatment

The specific physical injuries are treated as appropriate.

Counseling or an intervention of some type for the parents is mandatory. In some cases, the child may be temporarily or permanently removed from the home to prevent further danger. Life-threatening abuse, or abuse resulting in permanent damage to the infant or child, may result in legal action.

Counseling, including play therapy, is also necessary for abused children over age 2. Failure to help the child deal with the fear and pain resulting from abuse by adults, who should be trusted figures, can lead to significant psychological problems, such as post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

All states require that you report any known or suspected child abuse. Call the police and Child Protection Services.

Decisions about placing the child with an outside caregiver or returning the child to the home usually are made by the appropriate government agency through the court system. The structure of these agencies varies from state to state.

Support Groups

Support groups are available for survivors of abuse and for abusive parents who want to get help. See the resource page for contact information.

Outlook (Prognosis)

The child's physical recovery depends on the severity of the injuries. Psychological recovery depends on the results of psychotherapy and whether the child can develop trusting relationships with adult caretakers.

The authorities will determine whether the abuser receives psychiatric help, such as parenting training and impulse/anger management training.

Child protection agencies generally make every effort to reunite families when possible.

Possible Complications

Physical abuse of a child can lead to severe brain damage, disfigurement, blindness, crippling, and death. Abused individuals may carry emotional scars for a lifetime.

Children can be removed permanently from the parents' custody if the parents are the perpetrators and the cause is sufficient to warrant termination of parental rights. However, this experience itself can result in significant psychological problems due to feelings of rejection, or if the placement does not result in a strong, long-term attachment to new caregivers.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your health care provider, Child Protective Services, or local police if you suspect or know that someone is being abused.