Abuse laws
Texas state law requires that suspected cases of child abuse be reported to the proper authorities.
The name of the person reporting abuse is confidential and is immune from civil or criminal liability.
Even when in doubt, anyone can call the abuse hotline at 1-800-252-5400 to report suspected abuse.
The following are some signs of abuse to look for:
- Nervousness or fear around adults
- Frequent injuries such as bruises, cuts, burns
- Unseasonable clothes to hide injuries
- Physical signs of sexually transmitted disease
- Underage knowledge about sexual relations
- Sudden dramatic changes in personality or activities
- Evidence of poor self-concept
Child abuse runs along all race and socioeconomic lines. There are as many causes as there are preventive measures.
Unrealistic expectations of parenthood, strained marriages, drug or alcohol problems and financial problems are all major causes of child abuse.
Last Updated: 4/14/2004
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