Child Abuse in Texas
Who Texas CACs Served
Understanding the Issue
The Adverse Childhood Experiences Study demonstrates:
- Children who have experienced trauma are more likely to engage in early initiation of smoking, sexual activity, illicit drug use, and suicide.
- Children with multiple traumas have significantly higher rates of heart disease, chronic pulmonary lung disease, hepatitis, depression, and diabetes.
According to the National Institute of Justice, abused and neglected children are:
- 59% more likely to be arrested for juvenile crime.
- 28% more likely to be arrested as an adult.
The National Center for Mental Health and Juvenile Justice estimates 93% of youth in detention reported exposure to previous “adverse” events, including physical and sexual abuse.
Local CACs
Children’s advocacy centers (CACs) provide a safe, child-friendly environment where law enforcement, child protective services, prosecution, medical and mental health professionals may share information and develop effective, coordinated strategies sensitive to the needs of each unique case and child.
Learn How We HelpSigns of Child Abuse
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1Unexplained injuries
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2Changes in emotional behavior
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3Returning to less mature/younger behaviors
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4Fear of going home
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5Changes in eating
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6Changes to sleep patterns
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7Changes in school performance or attendance
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8Lack of personal care in hygiene
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9Risk-taking behaviors
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10Inappropriate sexual behaviors
Report Suspected Abuse
Call 1-800-252-5400 or 9-1-1
www.txabusehotline.org
