Child Abuse and Neglect

There are many reasons why adults hurt children. Understanding these reasons and what can be done to intervene can help protect children from the consequences of abuse or neglect. Adults hurt children because:

• The don't know how to manage their anger and frustration
• They lose their tempers when they think of their own problems
• They don't know how to discipline a child
• They expect behavior that is unrealistic for a child's age or ability
• They have been abused by a parent or partner
• They have financial problems
• They lose control when they use alcohol or other drugs

Child abuse includes physical abuse —e.g., shaking, slapping, or beating—or sexual abuse—e.g., fondling a child's genitals or having intercourse with a child. Child neglect means that a child's basic need for food, clothing, shelter, or safety is not being met. Most parents and caretakers do not intend to hurt or neglect their children, but they may not know better ways of coping with their own problems while meeting the needs of their children.

Children who are abused or neglected need help from other adults in their lives. Learn what to do to help a child who has been abused neglected, read an APA brochure, Protecting Our Children from Abuse and Neglect.