Sibling rivalry is natural, but when does a rivalry cross the line from normal fighting to sibling abuse?  Here are 7 signs that your children might be engaging in physically abusive behaviors.

1.  They tell you about the sibling abuse

If your child tells you about behavior that seems out of line, believe them, and correct it.

2. Rigid roles

One child is always the aggressor, and the other is always the victim.

3. Violence increases

As children age, violent behaviors such as hitting, pushing, and kicking should cease.  If such behaviors continue, or worse, increase, then this might be a sign of abuse.

4.  Avoidance

One child continually avoids the other.

5.  Changing behaviors

A child has trouble in school, difficulty sleeping, or loss of appetite.

6.  Acting out

Your child acts out physically abusive behavior in play.

7.  Emotional outbursts

Your child might develop anger issues, depression, anxiety, and low-self esteem due to abuse.

What to do if one of your children is engaging in abusive behaviors?  Immediately stop the behaviors, and talk it out with your family, reaffirming house rules.  If the behavior is extreme, talk with a mental health professional.