Child Abuse Prevention Resource Guide
Child Abuse: An Important Community Issue
Child abuse affects many children. Across the United States, more than one million children are abused or neglected each year. Statewide, 12.3 of every 1,000 children in Oregon are confirmed to have been abused or neglected.
Child abuse is a vicious cycle. Children who experience abuse or neglect are much more likely to become abusive parents when they grow up.
Child abuse has long-term impacts. Studies have shown that a high percentage of adults in prison were abused or neglected as children. According to the National Institute of Justice, maltreatment during childhood increases the likelihood of arrest by 38% for all adults, and by 77% for females.
Child abuse is costly. A child abuse case can cost taxpayers more than $300,000 per child.
Child abuse often goes unreported. Because of shame, secrecy, lack of training, fear of reprisals, or a variety of other reasons, not all abuse is reported. Research has shown that 35-50% of abused children are not identified and therefore do not receive necessary assistance.
Perpetrators of child abuse come from all walks of life. People who have abused or neglected a child represent a variety of economic, social, religious, cultural, educational, and racial backgrounds. Often they lack basic parenting knowledge and so have unreasonable expectations of a child's abilities. Frequently they were themselves abused as children.
Child Abuse Hurts Everyone
Children
Abuse and neglect affects children of all ages and socioeconomic levels, occurs across all racial and cultural groups, and happens to children in both rural and urban areas.
Families
Children who have been abused or neglected often live in families that face one or more of the following challenges:
- Substance abuse by parents
- Poverty
- Unemployment
- Parental involvement with law enforcement
- Domestic violence
- Parent(s) with mental health issues
The Community
Our children are the future leaders of our community, so it is important to help them grow up in a healthy and caring environment. Children's experiences when they are young greatly influence how they act as adults. Children who are abused will often become abusive adults, hurting themselves and others. Children who are nurtured and whose families have access to a support system and necessary resources become happy and productive citizens. And with treatment, children who have been abused and neglected can stop the cycle of abuse. With our support, our children can shape the future to create a prosperous and healthy community.
