NCJ Number
201278
Date Published
2003
Length
62 pages
Annotation
In promoting the theme of 2003 Child Abuse Prevention Month (April), "Gateways to Prevention," this community resource packet presents materials and resources to help communities mount activities that will support local efforts to prevent child abuse.
Abstract
An overview of child abuse prevention presents definitions and statistics on the national scope of the problem and discusses why prevention is the key to the problem. Child abuse may be physical abuse, sexual abuse, or emotional abuse; and neglect, which is failure to provide for a child's basic needs, can be physical, educational, or emotional. In 2000 nearly 3 million reports of child abuse and neglect involved 5 million children. In almost two-thirds of these cases, the information provided in the report was sufficient to prompt an investigation. From these investigations, approximately 879,000 children were found to have been victims of abuse or neglect. In suggesting what organizations can do to help prevent child abuse and neglect, this packet suggests prevention activities and provides supporting materials. Topics addressed include how to involve the media and local spokespersons, tips for preparing parent spokespersons, sample talking points, a sample press release for Child Abuse Prevention Month, a sample broadcast public service announcement solicitation letter, a sample radio and television public service announcement, and guidance on where to find child abuse data for a particular State or local community. Guidance and materials are also provided to assist individuals in contributing to child abuse prevention. It suggests ways to build "gateways" to child abuse prevention in the community and offers suggestions for a Prevention Month calendar, reporting child abuse, and being a nurturing parent. A resource directory lists national organizations with local chapters and national organizations that provide information, training, and technical assistance. An evaluation form is provided for users to assess the packet information and materials.