Questions and answers
- What are the signs or symptoms of child abuse and neglect?
- At what age can a child legally be left home alone?
- What can I do if I suspect child abuse or neglect? How do I report child abuse or neglect?
- What is considered child abuse and neglect in my State? How does my State define child abuse and neglect?
- Can I make an anonymous report of abuse?
- How many children are abused and neglected each year?
General resources
How to Report Suspected Child Maltreatment
Also available in Spanish: Cómo denunciar el abuso y la negligencia de menores
Toll-Free Crisis Hotline Numbers
Also available in Spanish: Números Gratuitos de las Líneas de Ayuda en Caso de Crisis
What Is Child Abuse and Neglect? Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms
Series Title
Factsheets
Author(s)
Child Welfare Information Gateway
Availability
Disponibilidad
Year Published
2019
Outlines the legal definition of child abuse and neglect; the different types of abuse and neglect; and the signs and symptoms of abuse and neglect, including human trafficking. It also includes information on how to effectively identify and report maltreatment and refer children who have been maltreated as well as additional resources.
From Complaint to Resolution: Understanding the Child Welfare Grievance Process
Series Title
Factsheets for Families
Author(s)
Child Welfare Information Gateway
Availability
Disponibilidad
Year Published
2022
Provides parents (birth, foster, and adoptive) and other caregivers with information about the best way to resolve their differences with a service provider or other child welfare professional. Since child welfare agency policies and procedures are State-specific, this factsheet presents information from a national perspective and points to additional resources about where to find information related to a particular State. The information and resources provided in this factsheet address the majority of complaints associated with the child protective services system.
Definitions of Child Abuse and Neglect
Series Title
State Statutes
Author(s)
Child Welfare Information Gateway
Availability
Year Published
2022
Presents State civil laws that define the conduct, acts, and omissions that constitute child abuse or neglect that must be reported to child protective agencies. The types of maltreatment defined include physical abuse, neglect, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, and abandonment.
How the Child Welfare System Works
Series Title
Factsheets
Author(s)
Child Welfare Information Gateway
Availability
Disponibilidad
Year Published
2020
Provides a brief overview of the purposes and functions of the child welfare system and includes a flowchart illustrating how cases typically move through the system.
Frequently requested information
Leaving Your Child Home Alone
Series Title
Factsheets for Families
Author(s)
Child Welfare Information Gateway
Availability
Disponibilidad
Year Published
2018
Discusses the factors parents must consider when deciding whether their child is ready to be left home alone as well as tips to help make the experience safe and successful for all. Resources for more information are also included.
Long-Term Consequences of Child Abuse and Neglect
Series Title
Factsheets
Author(s)
Child Welfare Information Gateway
Availability
Disponibilidad
Year Published
2019
Explains the long-term physical, psychological, behavioral, and societal consequences of child abuse and neglect and provides an overview of adverse childhood experiences. It also discusses the importance of prevention and intervention efforts and promoting protective relationships and environments. Childhood maltreatment can be linked to later physical, psychological, and behavioral consequences as well as costs to society as a whole. The outcomes for each child may vary widely and are affected by a combination of factors. Additionally, children who experience maltreatment often are affected by other adverse experiences (e.g., parental substance use, domestic violence, poverty), which can make it difficult to separate the unique effects of maltreatment.