What is a physical indicator that may demonstrate child abuse?

Unexplained injuries are a significant physical indicator that may demonstrate child abuse. When a child presents with injuries that cannot be adequately explained by a caregiver or the child’s own explanations, it raises concerns about potential abuse. These may include bruises, fractures, burns, or other physical marks that have no reasonable or believable origin. Such injuries often prompt further investigation and are a key factor in assessing the possibility of abuse.

Other options like increased academic interest, improved social interactions, and high self-esteem do not typically signify abuse and, in fact, might suggest that a child is thriving or coping well in their environment. These factors can reflect positive outcomes or resilience, which would contradict the potential indicators of maltreatment associated with unexplained injuries.