Child Abuse Statistics and Neglect Facts

February 11, 2026

Statistics on Child Abuse and Neglect

Child maltreatment remains a pervasive and serious problem in the U.S. According to the most recent data available here are the child abuse statistics and neglect facts:

Source: ACF.GOV

There is an overwhelming cost to society when it comes to child abuse. According to the CDC, the total lifetime economic burden associated with child abuse and neglect was approximately $592 billion in 2018. This rivals the cost of other public health problems like stroke and type 2 diabetes. It’s not hard to see that the benefits of programs fighting child abuse far outweigh the costs. 

Child abuse occurs across all socioeconomic levels, ethnic and cultural lines, and religions and education levels. Child abuse statistics indicate that maltreatment is a universal issue, and it’s critical to understand the maltreatment definition to address it effectively.

What is the Maltreatment Definition?

Child maltreatment refers to a range of harmful behaviors—including physical abuse, emotional abuse, and neglect—that threaten a child’s safety, development, or well‑being. A clear understanding of the concept and its various forms is essential for recognizing warning signs and preventing further harm. Because all types of maltreatment can have serious and lasting consequences, early identification and timely intervention are critical to protecting children.

Types of Child Abuse

All types of abuse are damaging. Even if less physically noticeable, they still bear scars and require intervention to protect a child’s life.

Signs of Child Abuse

If you see any of the following behavior in children, it may be a sign of abuse: