Acknowledgments
One of our Nation's most compelling problems is the maltreatment of our children. The Administration on Children, Youth and Families is committed to providing information to policymakers, child welfare practitioners, researchers, and concerned citizens so that together we can better address this problem. One facet of this process is the continued collection of data through the National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System (NCANDS), which is sponsored by the Children's Bureau in a partnership with the States. This is the seventh consecutive year that findings have been reported from the NCANDS.
This document, Child Maltreatment 1996: Reports From the States to the National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System, is based on child maltreatment data that are aggregated and submitted by the States. These data represent the most complete national information about child maltreatment known to the State child protective services agencies. We hope that this information will assist in the development of policies, programs, and services aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of our most vulnerable citizens, our children.
The work of many people has made this document possible. Specifically, the efforts of State child protective services agencies and their staffs in providing data to the NCANDS have been indispensable. The members of the State Advisory Group have been a source of sound advice and continuing support for the NCANDS. The contributions of all involved are gratefully acknowledged.
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James A. Harrell
Deputy Commissioner
Administration on Children, Youth and Families
