Prediction of the severity of child abuse using nationwide survey data from Child Guidance Centers in Japan: focus on infancy and preschool age.

Introduction: The present study conducted a secondary data analysis of a comprehensive survey from Child Guidance Centers in Japan to identify factors that are associated with child abuse severity in infancy (0-3 years, 1,868 cases) and preschool age (4-6 years, 1,529 cases). A predictive model for abuse severity was developed.

Methods: The data originated from a nationwide survey that was conducted in April 2013, consisting of details of abuse cases, including child characteristics, abuser attributes, and family situation.