Child Abuse
If you think you may be a victim of domestic or sexual violence or someone you know, seek help soon and learn how to stop or prevent it from escalating further.
Child Abuse in Missouri
In 2019, there were 64,920 maltreatment cases reported in Missouri.
(Department of Social Services)
Alarming Facts about child abuse and neglect reported and substantiated in Missouri. During FY 2019, 5,225 children were involved in incidents that were concluded as substantiated for abuse/neglect. Below are some alarming statistics.
The percent is the percentage of 5,225 total substantiated children.
Percent total is greater than 100 because a child may be substantiated for up to six categories of abuse/neglect.
- Neglect 54.5%
- Sexual Abuse 33.6%
- Physical Abuse 30.5%
- Emotional Abuse 13.0%
- Medical Abuse 3.2%
- Educational Neglect 1.6%
** Information taken from the Department of Social Services, Children Divisions, 2019 Annual Report
Child Abuse
What is Child Abuse?
There are four commonly recognized types of child abuse.
Physical abuse is the use of intentional physical force, such as hitting, kicking, shaking, burning, or other show of force against a child.
■ Sexual abuse involves engaging a child in sexual acts. It includes fondling, rape, and exposing a child to other sexual activities.
■ Emotional abuse refers to behaviors that harm a child’s self-worth or emotional well- being. Examples include name calling, shaming, rejection, withholding love, and threatening.
■ Neglect is the failure to meet a child’s basic needs. These needs include housing, food, clothing, education, and access to medical care.
■ Child Maltreatment is a term often used by scientists and prevention specialists to include all types of abuse and neglect of a child under age 18.
In 2018, nearly 1,770 children died of abuse and neglect in the United States. Children living in poverty experience more abuse and neglect. Rates of child abuse and neglect are 5 times higher for children in families with low socio-economic status compared to children in families with higher socio-economic status. At least 1 in 7 children have experienced child abuse and/or neglect in the past year, and this is likely an underestimate. (CDC 2018)
Child abuse and neglect are preventable. Everyone benefits when children have safe, stable, nurturing relationships and environments.
In 2019, there were 64,920 maltreatment cases reported in Missouri.
(Department of Social Services)
What Are the Signs of Child Abuse or Neglect?
It may be hard to tell that a child is being abused or neglected at first. Children may not want to talk about it. They may feel scared or ashamed. They may be afraid of the consequences of telling someone about a parent or family member abusing or neglecting them. It is important to watch out for warning signs. Please note, however, that these are just warning signs. The presence of these things may or may not indicate abuse.
- You may notice regular bruises, scars, and broken bones. The child is in the hospital with broken bones with inconsistent or no explanation.
- You notice changes in their behavior. They may be more aggressive or depressed.
- Their academic performance may suddenly change.
- They may not want to go home after school.
- They are fearful or anxious.
- You may notice they have sexual knowledge that is inappropriate for their age.
- Poor hygiene and unexplained weight loss may be signs of neglect.
What Should I Do if I Suspect a Child is Being Abused?
If a child is in immediate danger, please call 911 right away.
If the child is not in immediate danger, but you suspect they are being abused or neglected there are several ways you can help. Teachers, school staff, childcare staff, and healthcare providers are all required to report child abuse if they suspect it. Anyone, however, is able to report child abuse. If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, you can contact local authorities or child protective services. You can learn more about how to respond to child abuse by contacting Women of Grace.
The toll free phone numbers for mandatory reporting and reporting an incident to the Missouri Children’s Division are…
Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline
1-800-392-3738
For hearing and speech impaired, please contact Relay Missouri
1-800-735-2466/voice or 1-800-735-2966/text phone.
Women of Grace Hotline
314-652-2572
What is Child Abuse and Neglect?
Physical abuse is the use of intentional physical force, such as hitting, kicking, shaking, burning, or other show of force against a child.
Sexual abuse involves engaging a child in sexual acts. It includes fondling, rape, and exposing a child to other sexual activities.
Emotional abuse refers to behaviors that harm a child’s self-worth or emotional well- being. Examples include name calling, shaming, rejection, withholding love, and threatening.
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Neglect is the failure to meet a child’s basic needs. These needs include housing, food, clothing, education, and access to medical care.
Child Maltreatment is a term often used by scientists and prevention specialists to include all types of abuse and neglect of a child under age 18.
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Services We Provide
The Women of Grace organization offers advocacy services to anyone victimized by physical, verbal, emotional and sexual abuse.
The following are a list of services offered by qualified and trained professional therapist and staff.
Sexual Abuse Counseling
Cognitive Behavior Therapy
Compound Trauma Treatment
PTSD, ADHD and Behavioral Counseling
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
Behavioral Modification Plans for Parents
Anger Management
PROFESSIONAL THERAPY
Each child undergoes assessment and diagnosis.
A treatment plan is implemented for the child.
Follow up sessions may be necessary.
THERAPEUTIC SUPPORT GROUPS
Virtually led by a professionally trained therapist.
PARENTING SKILLS TRAINING
This training is designed to help parents develop skills and behaviors essential to preventing and reducing risk factors for child maltreatment. The goal is to encourage family reunification.
REFERRAL SERVICES
Services not offered may be referred to other qualified agencies.
Contact Women of Grace
If you need assistance or would like to learn more about Women of Grace please reach out.
Contact Women of Grace
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