Study: Half of U.S. kids assaulted each year
More than 60% of youngsters had either direct or indirect exposure to violence within the past year, according to a U.S. government survey that looked at past-year and lifetime exposure to violence among children aged 17 and younger.
The survey also found that:
— Nearly half the children surveyed were assaulted at least once in the past year, and more than one in 10 were injured as a result.
— Nearly one-quarter of the children were the victim of a robbery, vandalism or theft.
— About 10% were victims of maltreatment (including physical and emotional abuse, neglect or a family abduction), and one in 16 were victimized sexually.
The report, Children's Exposure to Violence: A Comprehensive National Survey, was published by the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention with support from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2009-10-09-children-assault_N.htm