Child Abuse & Neglect
  • 558,899 children were confirmed victims of abuse and neglect in 2022
  • Younger children are most at risk. 15% of all victims of child maltreatment were no more than 2 years old
  • In 2022, an estimated 1,990 children died from abuse and neglect

   National Statistics on Child Abuse

 
Offender
Who Commits Abuse?
  • There is no typical profile of a child abuser.
  • Abusers often look and act like everyone else. They come from diverse backgrounds and are frequently known and trusted by the child and their family.
  • in 76%% of substantiated cases, the abuser was a parent or caregiver.
  • In 2022, 21% of abuse allegations involved child-on-child sexual behaviors. Of these, 14% involved teenagers.

National Statistics on Child Abuse

 

The Manipulation and Grooming Process
  • According to the National Center for Victims of Crime, perpetrators may use manipulation or “grooming” behaviors to gain the trust of a child-and often their guardians-in order to access the victim and form a relationship built on secrecy. This secrecy is intended to reduce the likelihood that the abuse will be disclosed. Grooming Dynamics
  • While no single behavior indicates grooming, it is crucial for adults in our communities to stay alert, recognize potential warning signs, and be aware of patterns that may signal this kind of manipulation is occurring.

 

Talking to a Child About Abuse: General Guidelines

When a child shares something difficult, how you respond to them matters. Here are some important tips to keep in mind:                                                                             

Listen With Care

  • Let the child speak freely. Do not finish their sentences or guess what they are trying to say
  • Give them time. If they are struggling to talk, be patient with them. Let them use their own words.

Offer Reassurance

  • Thank them for telling you. Let them know you are glad they shared with you.
  • Make it clear it is not their fault. Say it directly: “It was not your fault”.
  • Assure them they are not in trouble. They need to know they are safe with you.
  • If they ask you to keep it a secret, gently explain that your job is to help keep them safe-and that might mean telling the right people.

Stay Calm and Supportive

  • Do not criticize the abuser. Children may still care about the person, even if they were harmed.
  • Avoid showing shock or panic. Stay calm to help the child feel safe.
  • Use their words. When talking to the child or making a report, use the vocabulary they used.
  • Tell the child you love them. Simple, affirming words make a difference.

Be Mindful of Your Reactions

  • Avoid asking leading or probing questions. Just listen and let them share.
  • Check in with your own feelings. Try not to project fear, anger, or sadness onto the child.
  • Always report suspected abuse. It is your responsibility to ensure the child gets help.