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Detecting Abuse

Emotional, physical, or sexual abuse victims may not show obvious signs of abuse. Often behavioral signs may indicate that a camper or staff member is the victim of abuse. Though most of the following behaviors have other explanations, you should be alert to various behaviors and bring it to the attention of the camp director or nurse.

PHYSICAL SIGNS:

• unexplained bruises, welts, or burns
• unexplained fractures, lacerations, or abrasions
• torn, stained, or bloody underclothes
• difficulty walking or sitting
• pain, itching, or bleeding in genital area

BEHAVIORAL SIGNS:

• wary of physical contact by adults
• behavior extremes - aggressive or withdrawn
• depressed or has poor self esteem
• poor peer relationships
• inappropriate sexual behavior or premature knowledge of sex
• fear of certain places, people, or activities

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