Final answer:
A significant indicator of child abuse is neglect, particularly among infants who are completely reliant on their caregivers. Physical, sexual, and psychological abuses are also common indicators, often with long-term effects that pervade various aspects of a child's life and wellbeing.
Step-by-step explanation:
Indicators of Child Abuse
One of the most important indicators of child abuse is neglect, which is the failure to provide for a child's basic needs. Other common forms are physical abuse, sexual abuse, psychological maltreatment, and medical neglect. Children under the age of one are particularly vulnerable, and neglect in this age group can be severely detrimental as they are entirely dependent on their caregivers.
Most child abuse perpetrators are parents or relatives. Substance abuse by parents increases the risks of abuse and neglect. Furthermore, the long-term effects of child abuse can include mental health disorders, poor academic performance, teen pregnancy, and a higher inclination towards drug and alcohol abuse.
Child welfare services may intervene when parents fail to take advantage of available resources to care for their children. Early intervention is key, as the lack of wellbeing caused by abuse affects not only the individual and family but also imposes a societal cost.