Physical & Sexual Abuse, International Adoption Clinic at the University of Minnesota

Unfortunately, institutional care settings are a magnet for adults who prey upon children. If physical or sexual abuse is suspected, it is in the best interests of the child and the family to seek the advice of physicians and therapists who have expertise in this area. Indications for an evaluation may include unexplained scars or bruises, a positive history or x-ray evidence of fractures, genital/rectal scarring or tears, and sexual behavior that is not age-appropriate. It is also not unusual for the child to share stories of past abuse with the parents once she/he forms a trusting relationship with them.

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Last modified on Thursday Aug 23, 2007

This page is located at http://www.med.umn.edu//peds/iac/topics/physsexabuse/home.html