Child Abuse
As of 2006, an estimated 6 million children were abused and neglected.
Many researchers and practitioners believe child fatalities due to abuse
go unreported. Studies in Colorado and North Carolina have estimated up
to 60% of child deaths resulting from abuse or neglect are under-reported.
Currently about 47 out every 1000 children are reported as victims of child maltreatment.
Child abuse cuts across all socioeconomic groups, races and religions.
Most people who abuse or neglect their children are ordinary people whose stressors overwhelm their coping skills.
Substance abuse, lack of knowledge of child development, single parenting, isolation, poverty, a history of domestic violence, are factors that contribute to the child abuse.
Children who are abused are at a higher risk for crime, substance abuse, becoming school drop-outs and teen pregnancy and violent behavior.
50% to 70% of children exposed to domestic violence suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder. This is a higher rate than either Vietnam Veterans or rape victims.
Reporting Child Abuse
Child abuse and neglect rarely stop without outside help. All North Carolina citizens are mandated by law to report suspected child abuse and neglect to the Dept. or Social Services in the county they reside. You can make the report without giving your name.