Different ways children and young people can be hurt or abused
Are you worried about something that has happened to you or someone you know?
Take a look at the information and advice on different types of child abuse below.
If you are a parent, carer or professional and have concerns about a child or young person you can find useful information on the NSPCC website.
Different types of abuse
Physical abuse
Physical abuse is when someone hurts or harms a child or young person on purpose. It includes: hitting with hands or objects, slapping and punching, kicking, shaking, throwing and burning.
Emotional or Psychological Abuse
Emotional abuse can involve deliberately trying to scare, humiliate, ignore or isolate a child. It can include: humiliating or constantly criticising a child, threatening, shouting at a child or calling them names.
Neglect
Neglect can be difficult to spot but could include: physical neglect, emotional neglect, educational neglect and medical neglect.
Sexual abuse
Sexual abuse is when someone is forced, pressurised or tricked into taking part in any kind of sexual activity with another person.
Child Sexual Exploitation
Child sexual exploitation (CSE) happens when a young person is encouraged, or forced, to take part in sexual activity. It might be in exchange for presents, money, alcohol or simply emotional attention.
Abusive relationships
Healthy relationships are based on respect. You should feel safe, loved and free to be yourself. Take this quiz on LoveRespect, a website that helps you to recognise the signs of an unhealthy relationship before they spiral. Everyone can try the quiz.
Female Genital Mutilation
Female genital mutilation (also known as FGM) is the deliberate cutting or removal of a female’s external genitals. There is no medical reason for this to be done. It is also known as female circumcision, or cutting, and by other terms, such as sunna.
Radicalisation
Radicalisation is when someone starts to support or believe extreme views which could be dangerous.
Useful resources
The Hideout
A website for children and young people with interactive resources to help them understand domestic abuse and where to get help from.
UNFORTUNATELY THIS WEBSITE IS CURRENTLY UNAVAILABLE AS IT’S BEING RE-DEVELOPED.