Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention

Child abuse and neglect are preventable. There are a number of factors that may increase or decrease the risk for perpetrating and/or experiencing child abuse and neglect. To prevent child abuse and neglect violence, we must understand and address the factors that put people at risk for or protect them from violence. Everyone benefits when children have safe, stable, nurturing relationships and environments.

Child abuse and neglect are serious public health problems and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) that can have long-term impact on health, opportunity, and wellbeing. This issue includes all types of abuse and neglect against a child under the age of 18 by a parent, caregiver, or another person in a custodial role (such as a religious leader, a coach, a teacher) that results in harm, the potential for harm, or threat of harm to a child.
Child abuse and neglect are common. At least 1 in 7 children have experienced child abuse and/or neglect in the past year, and this is likely an underestimate. In 2019, 1,840 children died of abuse and neglect in the United States.

Child abuse and neglect (CAN) are problems that can have serious and lasting effects on its victims. CAN are complex problems rooted in unhealthy relationships and environments. Preventing child abuse and neglect requires addressing risks and protective factors at the individual, relational, community and societal levels.

Child abuse is not just physical violence, it is any form of maltreatment by an adult, which is threatening and is violent for a child. But the harsh reality is that sometimes, those who should stop it are the ones causing it. IT SHOULD BE STOPPED.