What does this measure?

The number of children in indicated Child Protective Service reports, expressed as a rate per 1,000 children under age 18. Indicated reports are those in which there is credible evidence that a child has experienced abuse, neglect or maltreatment from a parent or legal guardian. This includes sexual abuse committed or allowed by a parent or guardian.

Why is this important?

Children who have been abused or neglected may experience long–term psychological and emotional/behavioral consequences. Victims of abuse are also at higher risk of abusing their own children when they become parents.

How are Cayuga and Seneca counties performing?

In 2010, rates of child abuse and neglect were 18 in Cayuga and 21 in Seneca, compared to 17 in the state (excluding NYC). Cayuga’s rate has increased 54% since 2000, but its rates were consistently below comparison counties and often the state throughout the decade. Seneca’s rates fluctuated up and down through the decade, ending 8% lower than in 2000. Rates in comparison counties ranged from 16 in Onondaga to 38 in Oswego.

Notes about the data

Reports of abuse or neglect may be influenced by many factors such as outreach, education and media publicity. Additionally, it is unknown how many cases of abuse or neglect are never reported to authorities. Each child is counted only once in these data.