The finding that children with disabilities are at increased risk for physical abuse is consistent with current ecological models that contend certain child characteristics such as behavioral problems in combination with other risk factors can lead to abuse. The paucity of research in this area makes it difficult to draw firm conclusions, but the few studies that have been conducted suggest child characteristics play a minor role in the etiology of abuse. Despite the lack of evidence indicating children with disabilities are at significantly greater risk for abuse than their nondisabled peers, the presence of a disability raises some unique issues in the identification, assessment, and treatment of special needs children. The literature linking abuse and disability as a risk factor is reviewed. Impediments encountered in the assessment and treatment of abused children with disabilities and their families are discussed, and guidelines for practice are presented. 57 references and 3 tables