Each day, children across the globe are subjected to child abuse. In fact, approximately five children die every day due to child abuse. The abuse can occur in many forms, such as physical, emotional, or sexual. To help prevent and raise awareness regarding child abuse, we've compiled some staggering statistics, as well as helpful tips, to put the issue into perspective for many.

The facts surrounding child abuse

• 1 out of 3 girls and 1 out of 5 boys will be sexually abused before they reach age 18.
  

• 90% of child sexual abuse victims know the perpetrator in some way. 68% are abused by a family member.
  

• Most children become victims of abuse and neglect at 18 months or younger.
  

• In 2010, 1,537 children died of abuse or neglect. 79.4% were under the age of 4 and 47.7% were under the age of 1.
  

• Boys (48.5%) and girls (51.2%) become victims at nearly the same rate.
  

• 3.6 million cases of child abuse are reported every year in the U.S.
  

• Abused and neglected children are 11 times more likely to engage in criminal behavior as an adult.
  

• About 80% of 21-year-olds who were abused as children met criteria for at least one psychological disorder.
  

• 14% of all men and 36% of all women in prison were abused as children.
  

• Abused children are less likely to practice safe sex, putting them at greater risk for STDs. They’re also 25% more likely to experience teen pregnancy.
  

• For every incident of child abuse or neglect that’s reported, an estimated two incidents go unreported.
  

• Child abuse occurs across all socioeconomic levels, ethnic and cultural lines, and religions and education levels.

Tips to prevent child abuse

• Be a nurturing parent. Children need to know that they are special, loved, and capable of following their dreams.

• Help a friend, neighbor, or relative. Being a parent isn’t easy. Offer a helping hand take care of the children, so the parent(s) can rest or spend time together.

• Help yourself. When the big and little problems of your everyday life pile up to the point you feel overwhelmed and out of control—take time out. Don’t take it out on your kid.

• Get involved. Ask your community leaders, clergy, library, and schools to develop services to meet the needs of healthy children and families.

• Help to develop parenting resources at your local library. Find out whether your local library has parenting resources, and if it does not, offer to help obtain some.

• Promote programs in school. Teaching children, parents, and teachers prevention strategies can help to keep children safe.

• Monitor your child’s television, video, and internet viewing/usage. Excessively watching violent films, TV programs, and videos can harm young children.

• Volunteer at a local child abuse prevention program. For information about volunteer opportunities, call 1.800.CHILDREN or contact your local Prevent Child Abuse America chapter.

• Report suspected abuse or neglect. If you have reason to believe a child has been or may be harmed, call your local department of children and family services or your local police department.

*Sources:

http://www.childprotect.org/facts-about-child-abuse.html https://preventchildabuse.org/resources/ten-ways-to-help-prevent-child-abuse/