Violence against children and adolescents remains one of the greatest social and public health challenges in Brazil. A survey by Pequeno Príncipe Hospital, a reference in child and adolescent care in cases of violence, reveals an alarming reality: In the last ten years, the number of cases has nearly doubled, rising from 378 in 2014 to 720 in 2024. This trend reflects a nationwide increase.

In 2024, 72% of the cases treated by the Hospital were classified as intrafamily violence – assaults committed by family members, such as parents, stepparents, siblings, or close individuals like caregivers. Sexual violence was the most frequent type, accounting for 58% of the cases. Most identified perpetrators were male (67%), and girls represented 71% of the victims.

The data analysis highlights the need for stronger public policies to protect children and adolescents, along with expanding support and reporting networks. One of the most alarming findings is the increase in the number of children placed in shelters: Seven in 2024, compared to only two in 2023. Shelter placement is an extreme measure, used only when remaining at home poses a risk to the child’s life or physical integrity and no family member can ensure their safety.

Along with the rise in frequency, the severity of cases has also increased. The number of children with violence-related injuries rose from 128 to 205 – a 60% increase. Many of these injuries involved fractures. Hospitalizations also increased from 103 to 135 – a 31% rise. These data point to a more intense violence scenario. A notable and troubling case involved a baby just 29 days old who required hospitalization.

Early Childhood: The most vulnerable group

In 2024, Pequeno Príncipe Hospital treated 474 children aged up to 6 years, of whom 309 – 65% – were assisted due to suspected sexual violence. Most victims were girls, with severe cases involving babies as young as 4 months.

Experts indicate that Early Childhood (0 to 6 years) is a period of high vulnerability. Young children are particularly exposed to violence due to their cognitive and emotional immaturity, total dependence on adults for care and protection, and difficulty verbalizing abuse. These factors make this a critical phase, where assaults can occur silently and devastatingly.

Neurodevelopment studies show that experiences in early years shape brain architecture. Early exposure to violence is considered toxic stress, which can affect brain function and increase the risk of future problems, such as mental health disorders, learning difficulties, and chronic diseases.

Digital violence

The increasing presence of children and adolescents in digital environments has brought new risks to their well-being. A survey by SaferNet and TIC Kids Online shows that one in every 11 young people has been a victim of cyberbullying, and over 53,000 reports of online sexual crimes involving minors were recorded in 2024. Additionally, 30% of interviewed children reported interacting with strangers online, increasing their exposure to risks.

Although Pequeno Príncipe has not yet recorded direct cases of digital violence, the institution acknowledges the seriousness of the issue. In 2025, the Pra Toda Vida Campaign will, for the first time, include topics such as cyberbullying, online harassment, and exposure to harmful content. Including these topics in the campaign ensures that full protection of children and adolescents also addresses the virtual environment.

Pra Toda Vida

Pequeno Príncipe Hospital has been caring for violence victims for over 50 years. The institution has a multiprofessional team trained to identify, support, and care for child victims of violence, aiming to mitigate immediate harm and support safer life paths. The specialized care protocol includes medical, psychological, and social assistance.

Since 2006, it has developed the Pra Toda Vida Campaign (For Life Campaign), which aims to raise awareness, inform, and mobilize society on the importance of preventing and combating violence against children and adolescents. The campaign includes training for health and education professionals and the distribution of educational materials to children and teens.

The initiative is also supported by society, with digital influencers, social media posts, and media coverage. Information and support materials are available on the campaign’s hotsite.

How society can help

Protecting children and adolescents is a collective responsibility. Pequeno Príncipe believes that uniting efforts from individuals, organizations, and public authorities is essential to reduce violence cases and transform the lives of those in risk situations. Every action counts in building a safer, more welcoming environment.

Reporting – which can be done anonymously by neighbors, family, or acquaintances – may be a child’s only chance for help. Reporting channels:
– Disque 100 (national, in Brazil);
– Disque 181 (Paraná state); and
– Dial 911 (in the US).

Signs a child may be a victim of violence can be physical or psychological, such as sudden behavioral changes, irritability, eating or sleep disorders, self-harm, poor school performance, and physical marks, like bruises, injuries, and fractures. In digital environments, signs include isolation after device use or sudden deletion of accounts, potentially indicating cyberbullying or online abuse.