Child abuse is the intentional infliction on children of physical, sexual, and emotional mistreatment by a parent, guardian, or other adult entrusted with their care. Teachers are among the most important people needing to be able both to identify and defend against child abuse since they are in close daily contact with their students. As mandated reporters, teachers need to better understand the wide variability of situations and behaviors that might suggest child abuse. This entry provides an overview.

Prevalence Data

According to a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services report in 2004, 64.5 percent of child abuse survivors suffered neglect (including medical neglect), 17.5 percent are physically abused, 9.7 percent are sexually abused, and 7.0 percent are emotionally or psychologically abused. Not all children survive ...

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