The incidence of child abuse and neglect is discussed, and Federal and State legislation definitions and responses examined. Limitations and problems of the current response also are analyzed as are four major forms of child maltreatment -- physical abuse and neglect, emotional maltreatment, and sexual abuse -- in terms of societal factors and individual characteristics. Implications of differences among abused populations are considered with respect to the role of the criminal justice system, child abuse reporting, investigation, support and therapeutic services, prevention, policy, and system reform. The most effective therapeutic and nontherapeutic service strategies are described in relationship to outcomes in specific adult and child subpopulations. Prevention strategies also are evaluated, with a focus on parenting enhancement services and child assault prevention instruction. The fiscal, program, and policy implications of child abuse research are considered. The actual costs associated with different prevention and treatment strategies and the long-term social costs of child maltreatment are assessed. The utility of applying the collective results of program evaluations and basic research to future planning is discussed with respect to (1) integration of research principles and program planning, (2) the subpopulation framework in child welfare reform, and (3) service and organizational components of an effective child abuse and neglect prevention network. Appendixes provide additional information on the National Clinical Evaluation Study and legislative and service resources for improved program planning. Chapter tables, summaries, and notes; index; and approximately 300 references.