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Frequently Asked Questions: Child Abuse & Neglect
Questions and answers
- What are the signs or symptoms of child abuse and neglect?
- At what age can a child legally be left home alone?
- What can I do if I suspect child abuse or neglect? How do I report child abuse or neglect?
- Can I make an anonymous report of abuse?
- How many children are abused and neglected each year?
- Who typically abuses children?
- How many children die each year due to abuse or neglect?
According to Child Maltreatment 2010, an estimated 1,537 children died as a result of abuse or neglect in 2010. This national estimate was based on data from State child welfare information systems, as well as other data sources available to the States. The full text of Child Maltreatment 2010 is available online at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cb/stats_research/index.htm#can.
General resources
- Child Abuse and Neglect: General Information Packet
Also available in Spanish: El abuso y la negligencia de menores: Paquete de información general - What is Child Abuse and Neglect?
Also available in Spanish: ¿Qué es el abuso y negligencia de menores? - How to Report Suspected Child Maltreatment
Also available in Spanish: Como puede reporter el maltrato de menores - Definitions of Child Abuse and Neglect (State Statutes Series)
- How the Child Welfare System Works
Also available in Spanish: ¿Cómo funciona el sistema de bienstar de menores? - A Coordinated Response to Child Abuse and Neglect: The Foundation for Practice
- Child Maltreatment 2010
Frequently requested information
- Recognizing Child Abuse and Neglect: Signs and Symptoms
Common signs that abuse or neglect may be occurring.
Also available in Spanish: Cómo reconocer el maltrato de menores: Los síntomas y los indicios - Leaving Your Child Home Alone
Addresses what to consider before leaving your child home alone, including tips and resources for parents.
Also available in Spanish: Los hijos solos en casa - Long-Term Consequences of Child Abuse and Neglect
Describes physical, psychological, behavioral, and societal consequences of maltreatment.
Also available in Spanish: Las consecuencias a largo plazo del maltrato de menores - Understanding the Effects of Maltreatment on Brain Development
Provides basic information on brain development and the effects of abuse and neglect on that development. Policy and practice implications are included for improving child welfare systems and strengthening prevention efforts. - Child Abuse and Neglect Fatalities: Statistics and Interventions
Discusses the occurrence and characteristics of child abuse-related fatalities, prevention and intervention information, and additional resources. - Child Fatalities
Related national organizations.