Unfortunately, conclusive data on adolescent abuse and neglect is sketchy or not available. Some characteristics of adolescent abuse and neglect are that: (1) most abuse is not chronic; (2) there are less severe forms of injury; and (3) some teenagers leave home because of abuse. It is important to understand what an adolescent experiences during puberty to differentiate true problems from transitional peculiarities. Developments in early adolescence are rapid physical growth, sexual maturation, and emotional and behavioral changes. Late adolescence is characterized by physical growth, sexual maturation, and intellectual development. The three main patterns of adolescent abuse are: (1) abuse beginning in childhood and continuing into teenage years; (2) physical punishment in childhood changing qualitatively to physical abuse in adolescence; and (3) abuse emerging in adolescence. Multiple factors are involved in adolescent abuse and neglect, such as poverty, drug use, and divorce. Problems such as sexual promiscuity, mental illness, alcohol or drug addiction, and juvenile delinquency are directly related to adolescent abuse and neglect. Good observation and documentation of physical injuries, behavioral indicators, and interactional patterns on the part of the social worker is crucial in assessment of abuse and neglect. The team assessment approach, and knowledge of treatment settings, such as home-based services and group home placement, are essential in working with these cases. The two goals of intervention are to relieve stress through crisis counseling and to enhance resources through treatment. Treatment intervention usually includes work with the individual, group, and family. 18 references.