According to National Children’s Alliance, national data from 2024 revealed that “an estimated 532,228 children (unique incidents) were victims of abuse and neglect in the United States.” National Child Abuse Prevention Month shines a spotlight on child abuse and neglect prevention. Kendra K. Ham, MD, FAAP, Section Chief of the Child Protection Team at Atrium Health Levine Children’s Hospital in Charlotte, North Carolina, provided information about child abuse and prevention.
Types of Child Abuse
The main types of child abuse include physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, and emotional abuse, according to Dr. Ham.
“Approximately 75% of all cases every year are due to neglect,” she added.
Child abuse laws vary by state.
Dr. Ham recommended that Maryland residents consult the Department of Human Services’ (DHS) website
because it is a good resource.
Cultural and Generational Aspects of Child Abuse
It is still common in Black communities, and in some other cultures, to spank children as a form of punishment or discipline.
“While it may be legal to spank a child in certain settings, states have laws against leaving bruises or marks. It is important for families to seek out other forms of discipline, as spanking, particularly with a belt or other objects is more likely to leave a bruise or a mark. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics standards, this is considered to be physical abuse,” Dr. Ham noted.
Child Abuse Victims
Child abuse can be generational in families.
“Often, individuals prefer to keep the ‘issue in the family so that they handle it without involving authorities such as DHS or law enforcement,” Dr. Ham explained.
Most commonly, abuse involves an adult who knows the child or has a relationship with the child (https://www.nationalchildrensalliance.org/media-room/national-statistics-on-child-abuse/).
Children under the age of 12 months are most at risk for abuse and neglect.
“This statistic has remained consistent for years. More than a quarter of child abuse victims are under two years of age (https://www.nationalchildrensalliance.org/media-room/national-statistics-on-child-abuse/),” said Dr. Ham.
A Mandated Reporter
Dr. Ham noted that a mandated reporter is someone who is obligated by law to report a suspicion of abuse or neglect. Every state has its own laws regarding who is a mandated reporter.
“For example, in Maryland, all educators, police officers, human service workers and healthcare practitioners are mandated reporters. This individual has to make a report if they suspect that a child is being abused or neglected and there are consequences for suspecting abuse or neglect and not making a report, which can include fines and even jail time,” Dr. Ham revealed.
Only reasonable suspicion is needed to make a report, not proof.
“Reporting is a way to help ensure that a child is safe without being the one who necessarily has to intervene or come up with a safety plan. You are able to report anonymously in Maryland.”
Investigations
“Once a report is made, police officers or workers with DHS will investigate. Their investigations include talking with the family and the child, if the child is verbal,” said Dr. Ham.
A child may be referred to a child advocacy center to complete a child-friendly forensic interview, which may include a medical evaluation with a trained healthcare professional.
“The investigators also have to staff the case with their leaders to determine the next course of action. If a child has been in the hospital or has been seen medically, the investigator may also speak with the healthcare provider who cared for the child to explain any physical findings, X-rays or labs that were ordered,” Dr. Ham stated.
DHS and police each must decide whether to close a case or determine if additional investigation is needed.
“Depending on the circumstance, this may also lead to court proceedings for a judge or jury to decide upon resolution,” Dr. Ham added.
Take Action Against Child Abuse and Neglect
A welfare check is a wellness check. Anyone can call and request a welfare check if they are concerned about a child who may be in danger.
“If you feel a child is in immediate danger, you should call 911. Otherwise, if you suspect abuse or neglect, you should make a report with Maryland DHS at 1-800-91Prevent (1-800-917-7383),” Dr. Ham shared.
Minors can advocate for themselves by finding a safe adult to share their story or call 911 if they feel they are in danger.
Follow Dr. Ham on social media via