Children are abused and neglected every day in the United States. Most often, children are hurt by the people closest to them, such as parents, relatives, babysitters, teachers or coaches. Abuse and neglect can be prevented with education and early intervention. Helping parents and caregivers learn skills to properly care for children and keep them safe is one way to prevent children from being abused or neglected.
Why Are Abuse and Neglect a Concern?
When a child experiences a pattern of abuse or neglect, it can result in toxic stress. Toxic stress can affect all areas of a child's life including their physical health, their ability to grow and learn, and their emotional well-being. A severe pattern of abuse or neglect can result in the development of post-traumatic stress symptoms that can affect a child for their entire lives.
