When a child or young person is abused, he or she may feel guilty, ashamed, or confused. He or she may be afraid to inform anybody about the abuse, especially if the abuser is a parent, other family members, or a close friend. As a result, it’s crucial to keep an eye out for red flags such as:
– Withdrawal from friends or from routine activities
– Changes in behaviour, such as aggression, anger, hostility, or hyperactivity, as well as changes in student ability
– Depression, anxiety, or strange fears, as well as a sudden lack of self-confidence
– A lack of evident supervision
– Absences from school on a regular basis
– Hesitation to leave school activities, as though he or she does not want to return home
– Attempts at running away
– Defiant or rebellious behaviour
– Suicide attempts or self-harm