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Statistics: the practice or of collecting and analyzing numerical data

Child Abuse Statistics

  • Globally, it is estimated that up to 1 billion children aged 2–17 years, have experienced physical, sexual, or emotional violence or neglect in the past year (Journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics)

  • In India, a child is sexually abused every 15 minutes, according to the latest government figures. (BBC)

  • It’s estimated that at least 1 in 7 children in the US has experienced child abuse and/or neglect in the past year. (CDC)

  • From 2009-2013, Child Protective Services agencies substantiated, or found strong evidence to indicate that, 63,000 children a year were victims of sexual abuse. (RAINN.org)
  • The National Center for Mental Health and Juvenile Justice estimates 93% of youth in detention reported exposure to previous “adverse” events, including physical and sexual abuse. (CACTX.org)
  • Among cases of child sexual abuse reported to law enforcement, 93% of perpetrators are known to the victim. (RAINN.org) In Texas, 98% of perpetrators are known to the victim. (CACTX.org)
  • The effects of child sexual abuse can be long-lasting and affect the victim’s mental health. Victims are more likely than non-victims to experience the following mental health challenges (RAINN.org):
    • About 4 times more likely to develop symptoms of drug abuse
    • About 4 times more likely to experience PTSD as adults
    • About 3 times more likely to experience a major depressive episode as adults
  • Every 9 minutes, Child Protective Services substantiates, or finds evidence for, a claim of child sex abuse. (RAINN.org)
  • The Adverse Childhood Experiences Study demonstrates…

    • Children who have experienced trauma are more likely to engage in early initiation of smoking, sexual activity, illicit drug use, and suicide.
    • Children with multiple traumas have significantly higher rates of heart disease, chronic pulmonary lung disease, hepatitis, depression, and diabetes.
  • According to child abuse statistics from the National Institute of Justice, abused and neglected children are…

    • 59% more likely to be arrested for juvenile crime.
    • 28% more likely to be arrested as an adult.

If you are in Texas and you suspect any form of child abuse, contact DFPS or your local law enforcement agency immediately.

By Phone: 1-800-252-5400
Online: Texas Abuse Hotline
ChildHelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 800-442-4453 (800-4-a-child)