Strategic Direction for Child Maltreatment Prevention

CM is a serious problem in the United States and around the world. 2 It can be defined as any act or series of acts of commission or omission by a parent or caregiver that results in harm, potential for harm, or threat of harm to a child. Acts of commission are deliberate and intentional, however, harm to a child may or may not be the intended consequence. Physical, sexual, and psychological abuse involve acts of commission. Acts of omission involve failing to provide for a child’s basic physical, emotional, or educational needs or to protect them from harm or potential harm. Physical, emotional, medical/dental, and educational neglect; inadequate supervision or failure to supervise; and failure to protect from unsafe and violent environments when able, may all involve acts of omission.