Child Maltreatment: The Role of a Dental Professional
Psychological/Emotional Abuse

A dental professional, including any members of the dental staff, may observe other concerning signs and symptoms in the waiting area or during the exam itself. Depending on their severity, these signs and symptoms might not suggest maltreatment standing alone, but when observed in combination or with any of the signs of physical abuse, sexual abuse or neglect as outlined above, indicate possible maltreatment.

• Concerning signs and symptoms exhibited by the child:^17,18
  • Extreme lack of self-esteem
  • Significant, unexplained delays in development
  • Inappropriate or underdeveloped social skills and poor personal boundaries
  • Inability to regulate mood and/or behavior, manifesting extremes
  • Pronounced nervous or repetitive behavior such as sucking and rocking or self-inflicted injuries such as lip or cheek biting
  • Change in the child’s mood, demeanor or routine from the last visit
    • Acting out behavior
    • Fears, anxiety or distress
    • Regressive behavior
    • Sexualized behavior
  • Atypical interaction between the child and caregiver
  • Failure to make eye contact when discussing suspected abuse or neglect
  • Statements by the child disclosing abuse or neglect
• Concerning signs and symptoms exhibited by the caregiver/s:
  • Lack of supervision in waiting area
  • Extreme discipline, including hitting, slapping, yelling, berating
  • Disinterest in the child’s dental needs and recommendations for treatment
  • Disinterest in the child in general