About 2 million children are victimized each year. Of these about 5,000 die and thousands are permanently handicapped with physical and emotional disabilities. Efforts to address the problem began in the 1970's with a focus on reporting, investigation, and treatment. In the 1980's, prevention efforts have gained momentum and are increasingly recognizing the need for sustained and coordinated efforts. Research now supports the efficacy of interventions like preventive health care, nutrition assistance, special education, and early childhood education. Strategies such as supportive education for parents, community-based self-help groups and crisis centers, self-protection training for children, and multidisciplinary family support programs have also shown success in reducing factors that can lead to abuse. Traditional and innovative approaches are being pursued in health care, communities, workplaces, social service agencies, and schools. Although skeptics may call for more knowledge, all the available evidence points to the need for a nationwide commitment and action to prevent further abuse, neglect, and sexual maltreatment of children. 273 references.