U.S. Child welfare authorities look into the safety of more than 7.5 million kids annually. Of those, around 3 million children received an investigation or alternative response from child protective services agencies.  In 2022 it was estimated an estimated 1,990 children died from abuse and neglect in the United States, a number consistently on the rise over the previous five years. The trauma of child abuse causes children to lose their sense of safety and trust in the world and harms their relationships. Left untreated, the trauma of child abuse can lead to: Mental health problems, behavioral changes, substance use, increased risk for violence against oneself and others; and/or physical health problems. This course will touch on these aspects and help chaplains understand more about child abuse to help identify, prevent or address child abuse.