Five Things You Can Do Right Now to Help Prevent Abuse and Neglect…...

1.  Reach Out - Anything you can do to support kids and parents can help reduce the stress that often leads to abuse 
     and neglect. 
2.  Raise the Issue - By educating yourself and others you can help your community prevent child abuse and neglect from 
     happening in the first place.
3.  Remember the Risk Factors - Child abuse and neglect occur in all segments of our society, but the risk factors are
     greater in families with economic and personal problems, are isolated from extended family, and who have addictions or
     health issues.
4.  Recognize the Warning Signs - Nervousness around adults, aggression, inability to stay awake or concentrate for 
     extended periods of times, dramatic changes inpersonality or activities, frequent or unexplained bruises or injuries, low 
     self-esteem, or poor hygiene.
5.  Report Suspected Abuse or Neglect - If you suspect abuse or neglect, contact your local DHR office, if you think a 
     child is in immediate danger, call the police.
 

Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention at a Glance

• Alabama ranks 48th in the US in the treatment and well being of its children and families. (Kid's Count - 2003)

• According to a University of Alabama study, parents who attended Parenting Education programs reported a 50% reduction in repeat offenses.

• In 2003, there were 19,267 reports of child abuse and neglect involving 27,603 Alabama children.

• In 2003, 30 children died of either confirmed or suspected child abuse and neglect.

• Data from the Alabama Child Death Review System for years 2000-2002 reveal that of 690 child deaths reviewed, 118 deaths were classified as abuse.

• An abused or neglected child stands a 78.6% chance of repeating the abusive behavior.