Prevention:

Community programs such as home visits by nurses and social workers can assist families to change behaviors or prevent the start of abuse in high-risk families.

School-based programs designed to improve parenting, communication and self-image are important in preventing future abuse and may lead to identifying abused children.

Parenting classes are very helpful. Newlywed adults without children should be encouraged to take such classes before each child is born. The dynamics in the home change with increasing numbers of children.