The overall aim of this book is to provide a clear,comprehensive account of the problem of child abuse and the way in which the law deals with the problem. The process of recognition of child abuse as a significant social problem, and the changing attitudes towards the veracity and reliability of statements made by children, are also explored. The reporting of abuse, the role of the doctor in diagnosing abuse and the development of inter-agency co-operation are examined, together with an account of how the law protects children from further abuse. Procedures in court, in both civil and criminal cases involving abuse victims, are explained, including the use of video technology. Finally, attention is paid to the abuser, and to the concepts of treatment and punishement.