In the United States, since 1983, April has been designated as Child Abuse Prevention Month, with a dedicated focus on raising awareness and preventing child abuse and neglect. Throughout this month, we work diligently to strengthen support mechanisms for children and their families, and conduct social awareness campaigns on child abuse prevention.
The Alarming Statistics
In 2020, the number of child victims of abuse and neglect was 618,000. The victim rate stood at 8.4 victims per 1,000 children in the population. While this figure is lower than the 656,000 victims reported in 2019, it is essential to note that the decline was primarily due to a decrease in the number of reported cases.
But How Many Cases Were Reported in 2020?
In 2019, Child Protective Services (CPS) agencies nationwide received an estimated 4.4 million total complaints. However, in 2020, the national estimate for complaints received by CPS agencies dropped to 3.9 million, marking a significant 10.5% decrease in the number of referrals reviewed.
The Impact of COVID-19
Regrettably, the decrease in reported cases does not imply fewer incidents of abuse or reduced danger to children. When we analyze the national annual data, we can see that the decline was most pronounced during the March to June 2020 period, coinciding with the spread of COVID-19.
With many schools transitioning to virtual classrooms, it became challenging for the largest group of child abuse and neglect reporters, educational personnel, to observe suspected maltreatment and file reports.
Therefore, today, more than ever, we must fight to reduce child abuse, not as a result of a decrease in reporting but through an increase in awareness and education about CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION.
We need everyone to play an active role in supporting children and parents and creating safe communities that foster thriving families. It is the responsibility of all of us to keep them safe in the community. Our children need us now more than ever.
Related Articles: Prevention Resource Guide 2021/2022
