Giving Our Attention to Child Maltreatment

Abstract

Child maltreatment is a serious problem and the reporting of child fatalities has increased in the United States (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2019). One of the common types of maltreatment is neglect followed by physical abuse. For Federal Fiscal Year 2019, on a daily basis, on average, more than five children died from maltreatment (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2019). Various policies and practices are used in the fight against child maltreatment. In this presentation, we will focus on child maltreatment data showcasing the vulnerable population and challenges experienced by professionals who work with families. Recommendations for policy and practice will also be discussed.