Child Abuse

Child abuse is a major problem in the United States. Researchers began calling attention to the issue in the 1970s, and today all 50 states have laws in place that require educators to report suspected child abuse or neglect to law enforcement officials or child protection agencies. In addition, sexual abuse of children in school settings is now recognized as a serious and recurring problem. Child victims have sued school boards under a variety of theories for sexual abuse perpetuated by teachers or other school employees. This entry looks at both kinds of abuse as related to education.