Child Abuse and Neglect: An Introduction

Abstract

This chapter provides an overview of the global, national, and local scenario of child abuse and neglect with special reference to definitions, classifications, risk factors, signs, and symptoms visible among abused children and the psychological theories and models on child abuse and neglect. Referring to international and national evidence with respect to burden of child abuse and neglect, the chapter critically examines the seriousness of the problem so that policymakers, law enforcement agencies, especially child welfare committee members, school administrators, and NGO personnel and other stakeholders get the real perspective of the issue and take appropriate measures at their level for the safety of children across society. Consequences of child abuse and neglect and the costs involved are discussed at length referring to the latest available evidences. Based on an empirical investigation in Puducherry, India, on child abuse and neglect to the researcher attempts to provide a realistic picture about the issue and provide a clear idea about the objectives of the study and the methodology adopted for the same.