Forty - eight of those cases were substantiated. Judi Pedersen is one person who hopes we care. What's more, she hopes we take action. If you've got that feeling that things aren't right, report it. Child abuse takes many forms, from physical abuse or neglect to sexual abuse and emotional abuse, Pedersen said.
Abusers can be the child's own parent or guardian or another adult.
Most love their children, but for one reason or another can't express their feelings properly, Pedersen said. They may have been abused themselves, have problems dealing with stress or anger or just don't know what to expect from children at different ages or how to discipline them. Drinking and drug use or financial problems may also trigger the abuse. About all agencies, law enforcement and courts can do to help abused children and families is reactive to a situation that's gotten out of control, Pedersen said. But the goal of these groups is to teach families how to treat each other and develop coping skills - not to break them apart.