An historical overview of social attitudes toward child abuse emphasizes that while modern society condemns abuse, neglect, and sexual exploitation of children, it condones their physical punishment at home and school. Following an examination of legal and sociological definitions of abuse, studies on the incidence of child abuse are presented. The literature survey on the causes of abuse covers personal, social, and cultural factors, but concludes that the interaction of many elements is involved and depends on the situation. A consistent pattern associated with being an abusing adult is a history of trauma during childhood, which can result in failure to learn appropriate parenting responses. Poverty, unemployment, job dissatisfaction, and marital conflict may also be related to parental violence against youths. Cultural attitudes which give children low status and few rights can contribute to abusive incidents. Studies on the psychological effects of abuse and neglect are described, with particular attention to emotional development and violent behavior in later life. Primary prevention strategies such as public awareness campaigns are discussed, as are secondary programs including identification of high-risk parents before they abuse. Finally, if the problem of violence toward youths is multidimensional and interdisciplinary, then ameliorating the problem may require a network of professionals and private citizens working together. Approximately 50 references accompany the article.