Recognizing the Signs
Understanding the Scope of the Problem
Child maltreatment is a deeply rooted issue that continues to affect thousands of families across the nation, with a staggering impact both emotionally and economically. In Fresno County alone, over 16,000 children were alleged victims of abuse or neglect in a single year. Recognizing the signs of abuse is the first, critical step in protecting children and fostering healthier communities.
Child abuse is not always visible. In fact, about 90% of sexually abused children know and trust their abuser. Abuse spans across all demographics and occurs in environments where it is least expected. Alarmingly, 1 in 3 girls and 1 in 5 boys will be sexually abused before the age of 18. Substance abuse plays a significant role in these cases, with 70% of reported child maltreatment cases involving substance exposure.
Key Warning Signs of Abuse
Adults working with or around children should be trained to recognize the four primary types of abuse:
Physical Abuse
- Unexplained burns, bruises, or welts
- Flinches at sudden movements
- Wears inappropriate clothing to cover injuries
Emotional Abuse
- Extreme behavior changes
- Delayed emotional development
- Loss of self-confidence
Sexual Abuse
- Age-inappropriate sexual knowledge
- Eating, sleeping or hygiene changes
- Sexual themes in artwork, stories, play etc.
- Withdrawal or fear around specific adults
Neglect
- Examples:
- Intentional failure to provide adequate food, clothing, shelter, or medical care
- Willful harm
Building a Safer Community
Preventing child abuse starts with awareness and community support. Fresno Council on Child Abuse Prevention (FCCAP) is dedicated to coordinating services, offering educational training, and advocating for improved child protection strategies. Every effort—big or small—makes a difference.
How to Respond
If you suspect a child is being abused, do not stay silent. As a mandated reporter—or simply a concerned citizen—it’s your responsibility to act. FCCAP offers Mandated Reporter training and a variety of educational programs to empower adults and children with knowledge and prevention strategies.
