Physical Abuse in Childhood (Ages 5–13)

In 2004, approximately 3 million American children were alleged to have been the victims of child abuse or neglect (HHS, 2006). Following investigation by state and local child protective agencies, an estimated 872,000 of these children were substantiated as victims. Physical abuse, which was experienced by 17.5% of victims, constituted the second most frequent type of maltreatment, following neglect (62.4% of victims).