Why We Do It
Quick Facts and Stats
- 90% of a child’s brain is developed before the age of 5.
- $592 billion is the national lifetime cost associated with child maltreatment.
- Preventing Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) can reduce suicide rates, chronic illnesses, and behavioral health issues later in life.
- Fresno County’s Child Abuse rate is higher than all other counties in California.
- Substance abuse is a factor in 81% of child maltreatment reports
- 25-35% of abused children will grow up and abuse their own children.
- Abused children are 59% more likely to be arrested as juveniles, and 28% more likely to have an adult criminal record
- Every 9 minutes a child is sexually assaulted
- 1 in 3 girls and 1 in 5 boys will be sexually abused before they reach the age of 18.
- Sexual abuse victims are 13 times more likely to develop alcoholism and 26 times more likely to develop other substance use disorders
Outcomes
Children who experience abuse or neglect may suffer immediate physical injuries such as cuts, bruises, or broken bones. Beyond these visible harms, they often face emotional and psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Over the long term, child abuse and neglect can have lasting effects on development and well-being. Victims are at greater risk for future experiences of violence, substance abuse, sexually transmitted infections, delayed brain development, and difficulties with learning, attention, and memory.
Exposure to child abuse and neglect can lead to toxic stress, which can alter brain structure and function, increasing vulnerability to emotional, cognitive, and behavioral problems throughout life.
Prevention
Child abuse and neglect can be prevented!!
If you are a professional or regular volunteer who has contact with children, it is your responsibility to observe, recognize, and report all forms of abuse and neglect. Contact FCCAP to learn more about your responsibilities as a Mandated Reporter and training opportunities.
Watch Now
FCCAP encourages you to view Dr. Bruce Perry’s First Impressions video that highlights how early experiences “build” the brain’s wiring. Positive, stable, and nurturing relationships help create strong neural connections, while stress, neglect, or abuse can lead to toxic stress and developmental challenges.
What happens in our childhoods will shape who we become as adults.
Break the cycle of Abuse…………… Educate, Advocate, and Donate!!
