The topic of child abuse is one of the most difficult topics to write about. It is crucial to have a deep understanding of this topic and its consequences, especially when working in the human services field. Professionally and personally, I have encountered situations where child abuse is present. This reality has touched my life in many ways, and these experiences continue to shape me as a human being and as a social service provider. In this article I will try to deal with the topic of child abuse, its definitions, the scope of the problem and its correct prevention. First, it would be important to define some terms related to child abuse. It is essential to have a common understanding of the many terms related to it. The topic of child abuse presents many complexities and certainly creates strong emotions in people when they talk about it or deal with it. In general there seems to be confusion regarding the terms abuse and neglect. According to the book “Child Neglect: A Guide for Prevention, Assessment and Intervention chapter 2” neglect is the most common type of child maltreatment in the United States. Neglect could be defined as the failure to provide for a person's basic needs or care. Unfortunately, society has downplayed the effects of neglect and many adults pay less attention to this type of child abuse. The effects of neglect can be just as harmful as the effects of other types of abuse on children and especially on those whose brains are in the early stages of development. One of the biggest challenges regarding the definition of negligence is that it varies on a societal level. service professionals, the justice system, the medical community and even across jurisdictions...... mid article ......fmGoldman, J., Salus, MK, Wolcott, D., Kennedy, KY (2003 ). A coordinated response to child abuse and neglect: The basis for practice. Retrieved from Office on Child Abuse and Neglect, Children's Bureau website: https://www.childwelfare.gov/pubs/usermanuals/foundation/foundationc.cfmDunn, D. & Craig, G.J., & (2013). Understanding human development (3rd ed.). Boston: Pearson. Crain, W. C. (2011). Developmental Theories: Concepts and Applications (6th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall McGuigan, W., Vuchinich S. and Pratt, C. (2000) Domestic violence, parents' views of their child, and risk of child abuse. Journal of Family Psychology (14), 613-624. Retrieved February 21, 20014 from the Academic Search Premier databaseMignon S., Larson C., Holmes W. (2001) Family Abuse: Consequences, Theories, and Responses Boston: Allyn and Bacon.