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CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT
Each year approximately 3 million children are reported abused or neglected in the U.S.; 3 children die each day from abuse and neglect. Below is information to assist healthcare providers, family and the community to recognize child abuse and neglect and prevent it from happening. Physical Abuse is when a child is hit, slapped, beaten, burned, or otherwise physically harmed. Like other forms of abuse, physical abuse usually continues for a long time. Sexual Abuse is when a child is engages in a sexual situation with an adult or an older child. Sometimes this means direct sexual contact, such as intercourse, other genital contact or touching. But it can also mean that the child is made to watch sexual acts, look at an adult's genitals, look at pornography or be part of the production of pornography. Children many times are not forced into the sexual situation, but rather they are persuaded, bribed, tricked or coerced. Emotional/Psychological Abuse is when a child is regularly threatened, yelled at, humiliated, ignored, blamed or otherwise emotionally mistreated. For example, making fun of a child, calling a child names, and always finding fault are forms of emotional/psychological abuse. Neglect is when a child's basic needs are not met. These needs include nutritious food, adequate shelter, clothing, cleanliness, emotional support, love and affection, education, safety, and medical and dental care.
Family and Community Resources
Professional Resources
Sexual Abuse Family and Community Resources
Professional Resources
Shaken Baby Syndrome/Abusive Head Trauma Family and Community Resources
Professional Resources General Resources
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