Suspected Child Abuse Report (SCAR)
When to Report
Child Abuse or Neglect
Anyone with proof or “reasonable suspicion” of child abuse or neglect should make a report immediately.
Reports can be made any time, day or night, seven days a week:
- Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., call 209.533.5717
- After hours, weekends, and holidays, call 209.533.HELP (209.533.4357)
If immediate danger is suspected, contact 911.
Suspected Child Abuse Report (SCAR) Form
To be completed by Mandated Child Abuse Reporters. Pursuant to Penal Code Section 11166.
Types of
Child Abuse
Physical
Physical abuse includes any act on a child by a parent or caregiver that results in non-accidental injuries. Some indicators of physical abuse are:
- Abrasions
- Bites
- Bruises
- Burns
- Fractures
- Welts
Sexual
Sexual child abuse includes any sexual act performed on a child by a parent or caregiver. Some indicators of sexual abuse are:
- Disclosures by the child
- Inappropriate sexual knowledge and language
- Pregnancy
- Problems toileting (enuresis / encopresis)
- Age-inappropriate sexual behaviors
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Emotional
Emotional child abuse includes emotional maltreatment of a child by a parent/caregiver that negatively affects the child. Some indicators of emotional abuse are:
- Aggressive behaviors
- Depression
- Severe anxiety
- Withdrawal
Neglect
Neglect child abuse includes the failure of the parent or caregiver to meet the child’s basic needs to the extent the child’s health and welfare are harmed or threatened. Some indicators of neglect are:
- The child appears undernourished and is often hungry
- The child appears dirty and/or unkempt
- Home conditions are unsafe and unsanitary
- The child lacks age-appropriate medical, dental, and mental health care