What age group experiences the highest rate of victimization in child abuse cases?

The answer is supported by research indicating that infants, particularly those around one year old, experience the highest rates of victimization in child abuse cases. This vulnerability can be attributed to several factors. Infants are entirely dependent on caregivers for their care and safety, making them particularly susceptible to neglect and abuse. Additionally, they cannot communicate their needs or report any maltreatment, which may contribute to a higher incidence of abuse within this age group.

Numerous studies show that the early years of life, specifically around the age of one, present the greatest risk for abuse, as children in this age category may also encounter unsafe living conditions or parents struggling with various challenges, such as substance abuse or mental health issues. As age increases, children develop better communication skills and may become more capable of defending themselves or seeking support, thereby experiencing lower rates of victimization compared to infants.

Understanding this statistic highlights the critical need for targeted prevention and intervention strategies for young children and the importance of monitoring at-risk families to provide support and resources.