Children and youth with disabilities are at higher risk of abuse and neglect than their peers without disabilities, yet knowledge about the scope of this phenomenon and its underlying factors in Israel remains limited. This report examines abuse and neglect among children and youth with disabilities participating in 360° – The National Program for Children and Youth at Risk. It describes the scope of the phenomenon, the types of harm, and the associated risk factors at the individual, family, community, and societal levels. The findings indicate high rates of abuse and neglect among children and youth with disabilities, as well as more high-intensity maltreatment. Disability is not a central explanatory factor for the differences in the risk of maltreatment between children with and without disabilities. Rather, it amplifies the effects of other risk factors. Based on the findings, the report presents recommendations for strengthening the safety and protection of children and youth with disabilities, including training professionals, expanding tailored responses and services, strengthening support for families, and deepening collaboration between education, welfare, health, and community systems.
Citaion suggestion (APA):
Nagar Edelman, R., & Barlev, L. (2026). Protection from maltreatment among children and youth with disabilities participating in 360° – The National Program for Children and Youth at Risk. RR-26-085. Myers-JDC-Brookdale Institute.