Study: Half of U.S. kids assaulted each year

[The Straight Story]

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

[thunder rising]

1. by the other half ... just had to say it.

[pnwmom]

2. Only 10% were victims of "maltreatment" -- including physical

and emotional abuse? That number strikes me as low.