Child maltreatment generally falls into four categories: physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, and emotional abuse.
Physical abuse
Physical injury that causes real harm, or a credible threat of it — from bruises to serious injuries — regardless of whether the person meant to hurt the child. Watch for unexplained injuries, burns in unusual patterns, fear of going home, or injuries that appear after a child hasn’t been seen for a while.
Neglect
Failing to meet a child’s basic needs — excluding cases where a family simply can’t afford care and hasn’t been offered assistance. Watch for malnourishment, poor hygiene, an unattended child, or frequent school absences.
Sexual abuse
Any sexual contact with, or exploitation of, a child. Watch for physical signs of injury, unusual fear of being alone with certain adults, or sexual knowledge beyond what’s typical for the child’s age.
Emotional abuse
Mental or emotional harm that visibly affects a child’s development — extreme punishment, scapegoating, or a caregiver who consistently belittles or withholds affection from a child.
If you suspect a child is being abused, contact the Texas Abuse Hotline at 1-800-252-5400, or call 911 in an emergency.