Statistical information related to child abuse and neglect is collected in different ways by different researchers, and depending on the data collection method used, may result in different data.

A summary of the approaches and difficulty of obtaining reliable and accurate data pertaining to child abuse was discussed by David Finkelhor in “Current Information on the Scope and Nature of Child Sexual Abuse” (The Future of Children, Vol. 4, No. 2, 1994, pp. 31-53).

Since the demographic characteristics and other sociological factors are often related to prevalence of child abuse, and since local reporting and grant preparation are strengthened by understanding of the local, state and national picture, sources for data are provided here in three different categories.

Child Abuse
Incidence and prevalence of child maltreatment as investigated using a variety of methodologies.

Child Health and Welfare
Statistics pertaining to the growth, development, health and welfare of children, including education.

Demographics and Census
Census and other data regarding communities and households.