Child abuse is a widespread problem that affects thousands of children each year. There are four common types of child abuse: sexual abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse, and neglect. All of these types of abuse are very serious and can have many consequences for children and families. The most common consequence of serious child maltreatment is the removal of that child from his or her home (Benbenishty, Segev, Surkis, & Elias, 2002). Most social workers attempting to determine the likelihood of removal assess the type and severity of abuse, as well as the child's relationship with his or her parents (Benbenishty et al., 2002). When children are removed from their homes, there are many alternative housing options. The places they are allowed to live are a relative's home, a foster home, or a group home. In one study of children removed from their homes, 68% were placed in foster care rather than with a relative or other form of alternative housing (Faller, 1991). Reunification with a parent is the most common goal advanced by child protective services, although recurrent abuse is likely to occur depending on the type of prior abuse and the age of the child. (Connell et al., 2009). Child abuse is becoming a widespread problem that has many consequences for both the child and the family. The Center of Disease Control and Prevention defines child maltreatment as any act or series of events that results in harm, potential harm, or threatens the safety of the child (Webb, 2007). While many people believe that child abuse is simply physical, many other forms of abuse exist; sexual abuse, neglect, and abandonment are also common forms of abuse. Domestic violence is also included in the definition of child abuse...... middle of paper ......l parents as soon as the home is safe again. In some cases, recurring abuse occurs when the child is reunited with their original biological parents or guardians. Abused children may exhibit behavioral problems that can impact many areas of their lives. They tend to behave extravagantly at school and perform poorly academically (Webb, 2007). They may also internalize their behavior by becoming depressed and exhibiting symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder. Child abuse not only affects the child being abused, but also the family system. Certain acts of child abuse may result in criminal prosecution, which could result in prison time and other serious penalties. Children show the effects of their abuse throughout their lives through their behaviors. Child abuse is a serious problem that must be banned by all agencies.