Every day three children in the U.S. are murdered by a parent or caretaker. 18,000 are permanently disabled, and 565,000 are seriously injured every year. Child abuse kills more children in America than accidental falls, choking on food, suffocation or fires in the home (OCCAPC, sec. 1). The term "child abuse" can be defined as any behavior directed toward a child by a parent, guardian, caregiver, other family members, or another adult, that endangers or impairs a child's physical or emotional health and development (NCCAFV, sec. 2). Child abuse does not discriminate against race, socioeconomic class, or religion. It is a huge problem in our society, and it must be addressed. We must first determine the causes. There are several causes of child abuse, but they can be separated into three general categories: substance abuse, mental issues, and stress.
             Among confirmed cases of child abuse, roughly 40% involve alcohol or other drugs, leaving nearly 480,000 children suffering at the hands of a parent or caregiver with a substance abuse problem (PCAA, sec. 2). The National Household Survey on Drug Abuse found that in the year 2001, almost 17 million Americans aged 12 or older abused or were dependent on either alcohol or illicit drugs. Illicit drugs include marijuana, cocaine, inhalants, hallucinogens, heroin, and non-medical use of psychotherapeutics (SAMHSA, sec. 1). These substances can inhibit judgment and impulse control and contribute to violent outbursts. This, in turn, can lead to the physical abuse or neglect of a child. I recently had the opportunity to spend the day at Childhaven, Inc., the local child protective agency. This particular agency serves the entire four corners area, and beyond when needed. Children of all ages are placed in this institution as a result of physical abuse, sexual abuse and/or neglect. My first several hours there were spent in the nursery with eight children. Each of their placements was relate...