What is a common sign of physical abuse?

Bruises on the arms and legs are a common and visible sign of physical abuse. Such marks can indicate that an individual has experienced harm or violence, often in contexts where they are unable to protect themselves or report the incidents. Recognizing physical signs like bruises is critical for identifying abuse early and ensuring the necessary intervention and protection for the affected person.

While withdrawn behavior might suggest potential issues, it is not exclusively indicative of physical abuse; it can arise from various emotional or psychological factors. Excessive talking is generally not associated with abuse but rather a personality trait or sign of anxiety. Finally, displaying happiness around adults can often be a sign of a healthy relationship or may also reflect a learned behavior to appease those around them, which doesn’t clearly indicate the presence of abuse. Thus, bruises serve as a direct physical manifestation of potentially harmful situations, making them a clear sign of physical abuse.