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Child characteristics

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

Authoring team

These are clearly generalisations, but some helpful features include:

  • mental alertness to surroundings - at the extreme described as frozen watchfulness
  • absent exploration but sustained vigilance
  • increased appetite and disturbed feeding behaviours
  • forming indiscriminate attachments in hospital
  • seeking attention
  • demonstrating aggressiveness
  • immature play
  • decreased inter-personal interaction
  • dull, pale skin
  • physically apathetic
  • children with learning disabilities may be at greater risk of abuse

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