Battered child syndrome: an obsolete term?

Battered child syndrome describes non-accidental trauma to children, representing a major cause of morbidity and mortality during childhood. The abuse usually is inflicted by step-parents, baby sitters, and others responsible for the child's care. Abuse is more common among stepchildren, handicapped, and first-born children. Most victims are younger than 2 years of age, with a reported average age of 16 months.