Physical Abuse

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A person or group of people causing physical injury to another person as a result of beating, punching, slapping, kicking, burning or using a weapon, characterises physical abuse. In fact any time physical force is used on another person (which isn't self-defence) is abuse. Injuries can be very minor in some cases but sometimes the outcome is major and can even result in death.

The results of physical abuse can often be noticeable; for example if an individual has injuries such as bruising or cuts that they cannot explain or do not appear to be the effect of an accident. Other more serious unexplained injuries such as fractures or broken bones can also suggest someone is being physically abused.

Abusers use physical force to control another person and rarely do it just once. Trying to have control over a victim makes the abuser feel powerful which is why they often repeat it, the feeling of power is addictive. Some abusers however, do not attack more than once; they realise what they have done and often seek help for themselves.

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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