Basically, they can be damaged for life if they do not receive proper treatment. Early identification and treatment may help minimize the long-term consequences of abuse. I never thought it could happen here. In addition, there were 65 unsubstantiated cases of abuse and 67 unsubstantiated cases of neglect. Prevent Child Abuse America does say child abuse reporting levels nationwide have increased 41 percent between 1988 to 1997.
Experts attribute the increase to greater public awareness of and willingness to report child abuse.
Changes in how states collect reports of abuse and neglect are also contributing factors, they say. It s great that more people are willing to report abuse. It s unfortunate that child abuse exists in the first place. Children need as much protection as communities can offer. As the old cliche goes, they are the future.