A historical perspective is drawn up for the problem of child abuse, which is then defined in terms of both physical injury and deprivation. The incidence and morbidity of child abuse are recognized as very high, and the main thrust of this report, as well as the measures recommended by it, are aimed at studying prevention schemes rather than incidence statistics. Four crucial factors precipitating abuse are outlined under a discussion of the etiology of the phenomenon: (1) the potential for abuse in parents; (2) a view of the child as deserving bashing; (3) a crisis or a series of crises; and (4) no parental lifeline or friend to turn to in times of trouble. The clinical aspects of child abuse are considered from the diagnostic perspective; descriptions of common types of battered children's injuries, symptoms of the maternal rejection syndrome, and parental personality characteristics are offered. Family diagnosis as a unit and matters of confidentiality are discussed as prerequisite considerations to case management and the involvement of a professional therapeutic team. Police and court roles and legal systems and laws relating to child abuse are summarized, as are central abuse registers and reporting systems. Special attention is devoted to abused children's general welfare and their chances for a wholesome future existence. Seven broad areas of preventive activity are explored, including education, medical care, early detection, improved legal systems, and support systems for parents.