Since there are numerous definitions of maltreatment, neglect, violence and sexual abuse, it is noted that research is difficult to compare, but the recognition by society of child maltreatment as a problem is a significant step in prevention. The medical viewpoint, stemming from the pediatrician founder of the Kempe National Center, is combined with other disciplines to include broad coverage of child abuse, the abuser, and the family in these well-documented papers. Legislative reform and the accompanying issues of definition and evidence are discussed. Difficulties of the law enforcement officer and the social worker in intervening and prosecuting child abuse cases are presented along with legislation in selected States and New Zealand. References.