Nature and Social of Social Problem Child abuse and neglect has been a widespread problem throughout history and although progress has been made, it continues to persist Today. Children are subject to the treatment of adults around them and have limited ability to make their own decisions and protect themselves. Children are often helpless and end up being exploited, which can lead to abuse and neglect, including sexual, psychological and physical abuse that leads to short- and long-term effects on children and their families. The federal Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act of 2010 defines child abuse and neglect as, at a minimum: "Any recent act or failure to act on the part of a parent or caregiver guardian that results in death, serious physical or emotional harm, sexual abuse. or exploitation; or an act or failure to act that presents an imminent risk of serious harm” (Children Welfare Information Gateway, 2011). In 2012, an estimated 686,000 children were victims of abuse and neglect in the United States (ACF, 2012, p. 19). In 2008, there were approximately 704,714 unique victims in reporting states and in 2012, there were approximately 678,810 (ACF, 2012, p. 19). The impact of child abuse and neglect is borne by victims and associated parties, but also by society. Certain direct and indirect costs are considered to determine the economic impact of child abuse and neglect. Direct costs relate to the immediate needs of victims and indirect costs relate to the secondary or long-term effects of child abuse and neglect (Total Estimated Cost of Child Abuse and Neglect in the United States, 2007). A 2007 report based on the estimated cost of child abuse and the practice in contemporary society (7th ed., pp. 14-15). Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole Cengage Learning.NASW (nd). Advocacy and organization. National Association of Social Workers. Retrieved March 21, 2014 from http://www.naswdc.org/pressroom/features/issue/advocacy.aspPetit, M. (February 6, 2013). Unannounced congressional votes to end the killing of 2,500 children. Latest news and opinions from the Huffington Post. Retrieved March 16, 2014, from http://www.huffingtonpost.com/michael-petit/protect-our-kids-ac_b_2633784.htmlThe Sanford mother who buried her child accused of murder. (February 26, 2014). Orlando Sentinel. Retrieved March 16, 2014, from http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2014-02-26/news/os-rachel-fryer-mother-dead-tot-interview-20140226_1_sanford-mom-sanford-police-felony-child - abuse Estimated total cost of child abuse and neglect in the United States. (2007).