10C - Child Maltreatment
P3: Explain the factors that would lead to suspicion of child maltreatment or abuse.

Child maltreatment, also referred to as child maltreatment and neglect, includes all the various forms of abuse ranging from physical, emotional and sexual abuse to neglect and exploitation. This type of abuse can result in the potential or actual harm to a child's health, there development and dignity.

Physical Abuse:

Physical abuse also defined as non-accidental trauma or physical injury, of which can be caused by punching, beating, kicking, biting, burning or harming the child. Physical abuse is the most visible and second most common form of child maltreatment.

In most cases, physical abuse is the result of inappropriate or excessive physical discipline. The child's parent or caregiver may strike out in anger, unaware of the magnitude of the force in which they strike the child.

There are other various factors which can contribute to child abuse; this includes the immaturity of the parent(s), lack of parenting skills, poor childhood experiences and social isolation, as well as drug or alcohol problems and domestic violence.

Other signs that would lead to suspicion of child maltreatment or abuse include:

● Unexplained bruises
● Unexplained burns – this would include cigarette burns or immersion burns
● Unexplained fractures, lacerations or abrasions
● Swollen areas
● Evidence of delayed or inappropriate treatment for injuries
● Withdrawn and/or aggressive - behavioural extremes
● Arriving at school early or staying late at the end of the day – appearing though they are afraid to be at home
● Chronic runaway
● Wearing inappropriate clothing in regards to the current condition of the weather in order to cover the body
● Odd explanation of injuries

The consequences of physical abuse can prevent the child from doing a