The rate of reporting was approximately 34 children per 1,000 U.S. child population, and an estimated 1,404,000 families were involved. An estimated 686,000 children were associated with substantiated reports, or 37 to 40 percent of all reports. Child Protective Services acknowledged that not all child abuse and neglect problems were within their purview. During 1987, many agencies began advocating a narrower definition of child abuse and neglect in light of limited resources to serve clients. Five explanations are offered for unsubstantiated child abuse and neglect cases: variation in and narrowing of definitions in both reports and substantiation; inappropriate reporting; insufficient information; lack of resources to assist the child or family; and inadequate investigation. Statistical data on participating States and child and family investigations are appended. 7 references, 2 tables, 2 figures.