Childhood physical abuse involves the physical injury or maltreatment of a child or adolescent under the age of eighteen. Physical abuse includes hitting, punching, slapping, kicking, shaking, burning and other ways of inflicting pain. Other forms of physical abuse include not giving a child food to eat, denying a child medical attention, and giving a child drugs and alcohol.

Physical abuse can have short and long term psychological, emotional and physical effects. Short term effects include physical injury and brain damage. Children may become withdrawn, sad, experience difficulties sleeping and eating, become irritable and aggressive towards their peers or younger siblings, have lack of confidence and self-esteem and start using alcohol and/or illicit substances. The long terms effects include difficulties forming and maintaining healthy relationships and a propensity to be victimised or abused in future relationships.

It is often difficult to tell if a child is being physically abused, as injuries may be inflicted in areas that are hidden from view. Signs of physical abuse include bruises, broken bones, bites, burns and unexplained or untreated injuries.

There is no direct cause or reason attributed to the physical abuse of a child. There are many factors that could be attributed to someone engaging in violent and aggressive behaviour towards a child such as stress, inability to cope with difficulties, drugs and alcohol abuse and having suffered physical abuse themselves.

If you fear that you are being abused, it is important that you approach a trusted adult. This could be a relative, close friend or teacher at school. They may be able to listen and support you, as well as guide you into seeking appropriate help.

If you suspect that a child you know is the victim of physical abuse, you can take immediate action by contacting your local services department who will investigate any allegations of abuse and provide you with detailed information. Alternatively, you can approach a children’s organisation where you can speak to a qualified professional for support and guidance. There are leaflets, books and websites with written information about physical abuse and what steps to take if you suspect that it is happening to a child you know. It is imperative that you take immediate action.