Abuse

Abuse can be emotional abuse, physical abuse or sexual abuse, or abuse by neglect. Often abuse manages to silence victims. They think they can not tell anyone, that there will be more trouble if they tell someone, or that the person they should be able to tell is in fact the person abusing.

Abuse leaves signs like:

• Bruises

• Sad eyes, watchful eyes

• Withdrawing from friends

• Anger

• Changes in behaviour

Sexual abuse is any sexual behaviour directed toward a person who has power over a person.
Abuse needs to be reported to some one who can help. This could be a GP, nurse or counsellor or a trusted friend who will stand with a person while they set some professional help.

Some websites that may be useful

http://kidshealth.org/

www.cyf.govt.nz/