Preparing questions in advance can help patients to have more meaningful discussions with their physicians regarding their conditions. Patients may wish to ask their doctor the following questions regarding abuse in children:

1. How can I help my friend who is being abused by his/her parents?
   
   
2. If I report my parent to the authorities for child abuse, will they be taken away?
   
   
3. Do you know any shelters or crisis centers for victims of child abuse or domestic violence?
   
   
4. I grew up in an abusive household. Am I at risk for becoming abusive towards my children?
   
   
5. What can I do to prevent becoming abusive towards my children?
   
   
6. Where can I get help so that I can stop hitting my child?
   
   
7. How can I protect my children from being victims of sexual abuse and other types of crimes?
   
   
8. I am scared my spouse may hurt me and/or my children if I report the child abuse to authorities. What should we do to protect ourselves?
   
   
9. I suspect my child is being abused, how can I get him/her to confide in me?
   
   
10. What will happen after I tell someone about the abuse?