Introductory background information on child abuse notes that it is found in all cultural, ethnic, occupational, and socioeconomic groups. It is a problem that requires immediate attention and the development of interagency and community cooperative efforts in prevention, education, reporting, training, and treatment. Child abuse is then defined as "any act of omission or commission that endangers or impairs a child's physical or emotional health and development." A section discusses recognition of the battered child and the emotionally abused child. A chapter on the legal aspects of child abuse and neglect presents summaries of California Penal Code sections pertinent to crimes against children. Another chapter explains the rules of search and seizure as they apply to the investigation of child abuse crimes. Sections of this chapter address access to records, evidentiary matters, and custodial matters. The concluding chapter reviews the contents of the California Child Abuse Reporting law effective January 1, 1981. Also included in the manual are check-off lists for physical abuse, physical neglect, and sexual abuse.