AMARILLO, TEXAS -- Though the numbers are down from last year, child abuse is still a problem in the Texas Panhandle.

The 12th Annual Child Abuse Seminar gave law enforcement, social workers and counselors the opportunity to learn about the adults children become when they are abused and do not receive help.  Dr. James Garbarino spoke about how to notice the signs of child abuse, how to point out child abusers and how to mentor both abusers and the abused to break the cycle.

"Last year, we had 1,812 confirmed cases of child abuse," Seminar Steering and Organizing Committees Member Don Nicholson stated.  "That's about 16 per 1,000.  That itself is not good.  It's down a little bit from 2010's numbers, but we're still having 1,812 confirmed cases of child abuse.  So, it's not a good number."

The Texas Panhandle has a higher rate of child abuse cases in comparison to the rate of the state of Texas- while the Panhandle sees 16 abused children per 1,000, Texas sees 9.9 per 1,000.

"It is the community's responsibility, whereas there's a legal responsibility by teachers and healthcare workers to report this," Nicholson said.  "I think there's a legal and moral aspect from neighbors or relatives to say, 'This child is not being treated right.'"

Nicholson pointed out there are several reasons why the Panhandle has higher abuse numbers.  First and foremost, he said, is that people in the area are more apt to report abuse- they know who their neighbors are and what goes on in their neighborhood.  He also said there are fewer resources in the area than in a big city, such as awareness billboards.  And the increasing number of teen mothers could also be a factor, as they may not have the tools they need in order to properly teach and discipline their children.

"Pretty much, you have children raising children," Nicholson said.

Awareness of child abuse continues to grow and Nicholson said anyone with any suspicions of child abuse should make a report.  Thought two of three reports are not confirmed, he said it is better to be safe than sorry.  He also pointed out it is never too late for abusers to get the help they need.

"Really, I think recognizing some of their actions or inactions are a result of abuse... It helps them recognize they do need some assistance.  It could be heavy-duty psychological counseling, it could be a group session with a Sunday school class or church group."

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month- learn the symptoms, make the call and save the life of child who deserves better.