Child Abuse and Neglect

Everyone can help prevent child abuse and neglect by showing concern for children and their well-being.

Prevention tips for parents and caregivers

• Learn how to Reference handle children when they misbehave. Avoid using Reference physical punishment. Parenting classes are offered in most communities. Ask your doctor or call a local hospital for more information.
• Learn healthy ways to resolve conflicts and manage stress. For more information, see the topic Reference Stress Management.
• Ask for help when you need it. Call a family member or friend to give you a break if you feel overwhelmed. Find out about community resources that can help you with child care or other services. Call a doctor or local hospital for information.
• Get treatment if you were ever a victim of abuse. Treatment can help problems like Reference depression Opens New Window, Reference alcohol or drug abuse Opens New Window, or Reference violent behavior.
• Remove firearms and other dangerous weapons from your home.
• Learn more about how children grow at different stages in their lives. For example, lack of knowledge about Reference why babies cry can make the crying a trigger for shaken baby syndrome. For more information, see:
  • Reference Growth and Development, Ages 1 to 12 months.
  • Reference Growth and Development, Ages 12 to 24 months.
  • Reference Growth and Development, Ages 2 to 5 years.
  • Reference Growth and Development, Ages 6 to 10 years.
  • Reference Growth and Development, Ages 11 to 14 years.
  • Reference Growth and Development, Ages 15 to 18 years.

Prevention tips for everyone

• Get to know the children in your neighborhood. Learn their names, and show you care simply by waving to them or asking about how they're doing at home and school.
• Give parents a break. Relieve a friend, neighbor, or relative who is feeling overwhelmed with child care and other issues.
• Learn the signs of child abuse and neglect.
• Encourage your community to offer services to help families who are at risk for abuse or neglect.
• Volunteer in child abuse programs.

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.