A
female
age
36-40,
anonymous
writes:My younger brother (13) is staying with me for a few days and yesterday I noticed he had bruises on his lower back and I think they go lower but I couldn't see. It looked like he'd maybe been whipped with a belt but I'm not sure. I asked him about them and he became defensive and said they were nothing. This is out of character as he usually tells everything so I'm worried as if it were just a scrap at school then he would surely have told me.Our parents are divorced but both remarried so it could be either his stepmom or stepdad, more likely his stepdad as he lives with him but he seems nice or it could be someone else. What should I do as its really bothering
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female
reader, anonymous, writes (29 March 2010): I wouldnt let this go. Sit him down and tell him you need to know whats going on because its clear someones hurt him. You have a right to know because hes a child and not able to protect himself. If he still refuses to tell you, then say you will ask your parents and their partners what is going on. Sometimes when children are abused they are threatened with more violence if they "tell". Some are also abused sexually and brainwashed into thinking they "asked for it" or "enjoyed" it and shame makes them keep quiet. So dont give up until youve got answers because somethings not right and he might need protection asap.
A
reader, anonymous, writes (29 March 2010): this could be anything. maybe he is getting bullied at school or out of school by someone, ask him if he is getting bullied he might be too afraid to tell you thats probley why he got all defensive...
or like you said it could be your step mom or step dad that did this to him, i would keep a close eye on him because it could be one of them, you say your stepdad seems nice that might be true but people aint always what they seem... it could be anyone doing this to him so you need to try and get it out of him, if you cant get it out of him, talk to his step mom and step dad and see what they have to say, talk to his friends, just keep trying to talk to him or anyone else that knows him. and keep an eye out if he gets anymore bruises. good luck
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A
female
reader, SirenaBlusera  +, writes (29 March 2010):
 You should definitely tell your parents about this. I'm concerned that whoever abused him probably threatened him and that's why he doesn't want to tell anyone. An adult needs to know about this. Ebony is correct; if this abuse continues, or if your parents don't do anything about it, you should contact child protective services and tell them.
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A
female
reader, Laura1318  +, writes (29 March 2010):
 He could be bullied in school or involved with a fight with others.
You will need to ask and ask again at different times until he relents and tells you the truth. Keep on digging until he opens himself up.
Inform your parents and maybe meet his friends to find out what happened.
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A
female
reader, EbonyBlossom +, writes (29 March 2010):
 Telling both of your parents about your concern would be a good way to start. Also sit down with your brother and try again. But don't be forceful, just say that you'll offer him support, and that whenever he wants to get away he can come to your house. If you tell your parents and nothing happens or you believe that the abuse is continuoing and you are still concerned, you should inform social services.
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A
male
reader, CaringGuy +, writes (29 March 2010):
With boys, they don't open up until they feel totally secure within themselves. Just be there, but don't push him into talking. Watch how he acts, and listen to him when he does talk. And talk to your mum about it too.
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