Physical Abuse

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Physical abuse is usually a symptom of an abusive relationship and can involve punching, slapping, burning or cutting. Abuse thrives on secrecy, and often injuries are inflicted on areas hidden from view. Where the abuse is less controlled, as in cases involving alcohol and drugs, injuries are more random. Often an injury alerts the outside world to on-going abuse, as in childhood bullying or within a close relationship.

More people die, worldwide, as a result of domestic physical abuse than of cancer, traffic accidents or wars, according to the Home Office. People attempting to leave an abusive relationship are at particular risk and should seek professional support.

Signs of Physical Abuse:

• Cuts and bruises
• Injuries to the neck, head, chest and stomach
• Broken bones or fractures
• Missing or chipped teeth
• Injuries healing at different stages
• Burns
• Sprains

Causes:

Obviously there is not one cause of physical abuse and it is not known what triggers someone to act out violent attacks on other individuals. There are factors thought to influence the actions of an abuser; lots of them have suffered physical, emotional or sexual abuse themselves, especially as children. Being involved in drug or alcohol abuse can also influence an attack. Jealousy is a common reason why bullying begins.

Side Effects:

• Anxiety or depression
• Isolation from others
• Repetitive nightmares or flashbacks
• Difficulty staying at school or keeping a job
• Children may run away from home
• Aggressive behaviour
• Drug or alcohol abuse
• Eating disorders

Medical Help and Treatment:

It is likely that victims of physical abuse will need to attend counselling sessions in order to get back their confidence and self-esteem. There are a variety of help sources available for sufferers of physical abuse, however the individual must take the first step by wanting to get help and be willing to discuss their experience.

Further Help

• Childline
  
• NSPCC
  
• A House Full Of Whispers (A book by Sharon Wallace, a survivor of physical, mental and sexual abuse.

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This content is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the advice given by any professional.