The video's format consists of narration that interprets charts with outlines of the knowledge presented and slides that show children's injuries attributable to abuse. A slide lists four types of child abuse: emotional abuse, neglect/failure to thrive, sexual abuse, and physical abuse. Each of these types of abuse is defined, and actions and omissions that constitute various types of abuse are listed. Characteristics of children vulnerable to abuse are also outlined on a chart. They include adopted children, stepchildren, children in families of twins, hyperactive children, children who look "different," and children born prematurely. Indicators of physical abuse are illustrated with slides of children's injuries. The narrator points out how the physical injuries suggest that abuse is the only way the injuries could have occurred. Some examples of physical symptoms attributable to accidental injuries or genetic flaws are also included. Other topics addressed are the characteristics of persons at risk of becoming abusers, the consequences of abuse for the children, child abuse patterns, and "triggers" for child abuse incidents.