Legal Definitions - battered-child syndrome

Battered-Child Syndrome refers to a recognized pattern of physical injuries and psychological symptoms observed in a child that strongly indicates ongoing, non-accidental harm, typically inflicted by a caregiver or someone close to the child.

This syndrome is characterized by a collection of injuries that are inconsistent with the explanations provided, or with the child's developmental stage and abilities. These injuries often include fractures at various stages of healing, unexplained bruises, burns, or internal trauma. Beyond the physical signs, a child might also exhibit specific behavioral or emotional issues. The diagnosis is crucial in identifying situations where a child is suffering from repeated intentional harm, rather than isolated accidents.

Here are some examples illustrating battered-child syndrome:

• Example 1: Infant with Multiple Healing Fractures

  A six-month-old infant is brought to the emergency room with a broken arm. X-rays reveal not only the fresh break but also several older, healing fractures in different bones, such as ribs and a leg, which were previously undiagnosed. The parents claim the child simply rolled off a couch.

  This situation illustrates battered-child syndrome because the presence of multiple fractures at different stages of healing, especially in an infant who cannot yet crawl or walk, is highly inconsistent with an accidental fall. The pattern of injuries strongly suggests repeated, non-accidental trauma inflicted over time, fitting the definition of ongoing harm by a caregiver.

• Example 2: Toddler with Unexplained Injuries and Behavioral Changes

  A two-year-old toddler is frequently seen by a pediatrician for recurring bruises, some in unusual places like the inner thighs or torso, and a recent burn on the hand. The parents offer vague or inconsistent explanations. The child also appears withdrawn, fearful of physical touch, and shows developmental delays.

  This scenario points to battered-child syndrome due to the combination of unexplained and recurring physical injuries (bruises, burn) that are suspicious in nature and location, coupled with significant behavioral changes (withdrawal, fear, developmental delays). These multiple indicators, both physical and psychological, suggest a pattern of intentional abuse rather than isolated accidents, aligning with the syndrome's characteristics.

• Example 3: School-Aged Child with Internal Injuries

  An eight-year-old child is admitted to the hospital with severe abdominal pain and internal bleeding, requiring emergency surgery. The parents state the child fell down a flight of stairs. However, medical examination reveals injuries inconsistent with a typical fall, such as a ruptured spleen and liver lacerations, which often require significant blunt force trauma. The child is also reluctant to speak about what happened.

  This case exemplifies battered-child syndrome because the severity and type of internal injuries (ruptured spleen, liver lacerations) are highly unlikely to result from a simple fall down stairs, especially given the child's age and ability to articulate. The discrepancy between the parents' explanation and the medical findings, combined with the child's reluctance to communicate, suggests intentional and severe physical abuse, fitting the pattern of non-accidental trauma.