PREVIEW

Hidden in Plain Sight: A statistical analysis of violence against children

January 1, 2014
Organization: UNICEF

Children who have been abused, neglected or witness violence often suffer from educational and developmental delays and psychosocial affects, including distress and depression. Despite an increase of violence towards children, there is limited documentation on the effects of abuse. This UNICEF report compiles available evidence from a variety of sources, including Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys, Demographic and Health Surveys, Global School-based Student Health Surveys and Health Behaviour and School-aged Children Surveys, to discuss current knowledge on patterns of violence against children, particularly interpersonal violence (physical, sexual and emotional). This paper reviews statistics in 190 low and middle income countries and provides an evidence base for reporting, attitudes and perceptions of violence against children.