Child abuse and neglect: a global phenomenon

Abstract

Child abuse and neglect are worldwide phenomena which seem to be assuming epidemic proportions in the U.S.A. Four conditions are usually considered under child abuse and these include physical abuse, physical neglect, sexual abuse and emotional maltreatment. The various predisposing factors to abuse or neglect of children in developed and developing countries are considered. The apparent low incidence of cases of child abuse in Nigeria may not be unrelated to our inability to recognize and report cases as they occur. The primary health physician therefore has a challenge to suspect, detect, treat promptly and report such cases. The urgent need for a multidisciplinary approach to the problem of child abuse and neglect in Nigeria is stressed.