Child Abuse & Neglect
Child Abuse and Neglect is defined as:
All types of abuse and neglect of a child under the age of 18 by a parent, caregiver, or another person in a custodial role (e.g., a religious leader, a coach, or a teacher) that results in harm, the potential for harm, or threat of harm to a child.
Source: Center for Disease Control and Prevention
Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect
If you suspect a child is in immediate danger, call 911. All Maryland citizens should report suspected abuse or neglect to the local department of social services or to a local law enforcement agency. Ensuring the safety of Maryland’s children is an obligation shared by all citizens and organizations.
There are four common types of abuse and neglect:
Physical Abuse
The intentional use of physical force that can result in physical injury. Examples include hitting, kicking, shaking, or other shows of force against a child.
Sexual Abuse
Refers to any completed or attempted sexual acts or sexual contact with a child by a caregiver. Examples include fondling, penetration, and exposing a child to sexual activities.
Emotional Abuse
Refers to behaviors that harm a child's self-worth or emotional well-being. Examples include name-calling, shaming, rejecting, and withholding love.
Neglect
Is the failure to meet a child's basic physical and emotional needs. These needs include housing, food, clothing, education, access to medical care, and having feelings validated and appropriately responded to.
Prevalence of Specific ACEs among Maryland Adults
22%
Physical Abuse
31%
Emotional Abuse
15%
Mental Illness
22%
Substance Misuse
29%
Divorce
7%
Incarcerated Relative
What are ACEs?
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are potentially traumatic events that occur in childhood (0 -17 years), such as experiencing violence, abuse, or neglect, witnessing violence in the home or community, or having a family member attempt or die by suicide. ACEs are preventable. Safe, stable, nurturing relationships and environments are essential to children’s health and well-being. Read more on the Maryland Department of Health ACEs report.
