The AAP Council on Child Abuse and Neglect (COCAN) has put together information on AAP policies, AAP resources, partner resources and more for pediatricians and other pediatric health care providers to learn more about child abuse and neglect.


Child Abuse and Neglect Overview

In 2023, more than 500,000 children in US experienced abuse or neglect, while more than 1,900 children died from abuse and neglect. Child abuse and neglect encompasses physical abuse, psychological abuse, sexual abuse and neglect, and is sometimes referred to as child maltreatment. Child abuse and neglect is a public health problem that poses a health risk for children who lack safe, stable nurturing relationships and socioeconomic supports that can mitigate the negative effects of social drivers of health.

Policies and Recommendations

Current Initiatives

Tools and Resources

Council on Child Abuse and Neglect

The Council on Child Abuse and Neglect is dedicated to improving the care of infants, children and adolescents who are abused and neglected.​​

Last Updated

02/04/2025

Source

American Academy of Pediatrics