Displaying items by tag: abusive head trauma

Misinformation Alert! Setting the Record Straight on Shaken Baby Syndrome

Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS), a form of Abusive Head Trauma (AHT), is a serious and complex medical diagnosis, but lately it has been clouded by misinformation. Media stories, podcasts, and even documentaries have amplified misleading narratives that question long-standing science and threaten to undermine child protection efforts.

Let’s take a closer look at the facts behind the myths.

Myth #1: The medical community is divided on SBS/AHT.

One misleading narrative is that there has been a recent “shift” in the medical consensus regarding SBS/AHT. This assertion is false. A vast majority of medical professionals continue to recognize SBS/AHT as a valid diagnosis. In one study, 88% of physicians considered SBS valid and 93% validated AHT (Narang et al., 2016). 

Rather than shifting away from SBS/AHT as a valid diagnosis, reputable consensus shows a clear display of support. A coalition of respected organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, Society for Pediatric Radiology, European Society of Paediatric Radiology, American Professional Society on the Abuse of Children, and several international pediatric associations has issued a joint statement reaffirming that there is no medical controversy regarding the existence of SBS/AHT (Choudhary et al., 2018).

The bottom line is the medical consensus is strong and clear.

Read more:

• Acceptance of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma as medical diagnoses
• Consensus statement on Abusive Head Trauma in infants and young children

Myth #2: SBS/AHT is based on outdated or ‘junk’ science.

This claim is both inaccurate and dangerous. The term “junk science” has increasingly appeared in legal discussions surrounding SBS/AHT, suggesting that the diagnosis lacks scientific validity. This is inaccurate. Our understanding of shaken baby syndrome is supported by a robust and continually updated body of scientific and clinical research. 

This research is clearly summarized in the new 2025 American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Abusive Head Trauma in Infants and Children: Technical Report, which reaffirms SBS/AHT as an evidence-based medical diagnosis. An SBS/AHT diagnosis is multidisciplinary. These experts evaluate clinical findings alongside the child’s medical history, reported injury circumstances, and investigative findings. The report also lists the severe outcomes associated with shaking injuries, including lifelong disabilities and death.

Another misconception is the science behind SBS/AHT has recently changed. Some critics claim doctors once relied only on the “triad” of finding – retinal hemorrhages, subdural hematoma, and encephalopathy. In reality modern diagnosis is far more comprehensive. It involves a multidisciplinary team often including child abuse pediatricians, ophthalmologists, neurologists, and radiologists who evaluate all medical findings alongside the child’s history, reported circumstances, and investigative evidence. An SBS/AHT diagnosis is the result of a rigorous and comprehensive assessment, not a single test or opinion.

Read more:

• Abusive Head Trauma in infants and children: Technical report

Myth #3: “Wrongful convictions prove SBS/AHT isn’t real.”

Some organizations and legal professionals cite exonerations in SBS/AHT cases as evidence of the diagnosis’ invalidity, however, these claims misrepresent the data. A 2021 study found that only 3% of SBS/AHT convictions were overturned, and just 1% of cases were overturned based on medical evidence (Narang et al., 2021). 

Read more:

• Overturned abusive head trauma and shaken baby syndrome convictions in the United States: Prevalence, legal basis, and medical evidence
• A Daubert analysis of Abusive Head Trauma/Shaken Baby Syndrome

Why This Matters

Misinformation spreads quickly, but facts save lives! Shaken Baby Syndrome/Abusive Head Trauma is a well-established, evidence-based diagnosis recognized by the vast majority of medical experts and U.S. courts.

When we focus on education, awareness, and prevention, we protect children and ensure that accurate, science-based information continues to guide parents, caregivers, and professionals everywhere.

The National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome is honored to share the personal stories of those affected by Shaken Baby Syndrome/Abusive Head Trauma. Please take a minute to watch these short video clips and learn from a few of the countless victims and their families that have been devastated by this preventable form of abuse.

Shaken Baby Syndrome Families Struggle with Lives Changed Forever in an Instant

Families of victims of SBS are in a lifelong struggle after their babies are abused. Click the Image to Play Video

Shaken Baby Syndrome Devastates

SBS affects more children than Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). SBS is a devastating form of child abuse that leaves those babies who survive the abuse with lifelong challenges. Click the Image to Play Video

Shaken Baby Syndrome Families Battle Immediate Fear & Infinite Worry

Families of victims of SBS deal with the immediate fear that their baby could die... and if their baby miraculously survives, fear turns to worry about how do you care for them now? Click the Image to Play Video

Shaken Baby Syndrome Families Fight for Justice They May Never See

Justice is often slow-moving or is never seen in many cases of Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS). Families of victims of SBS are left fighting for justice in the midst of the tragedy. Click the Image to Play Video

Shaken Baby Syndrome Families Find Love and Meaning through Tragedy

In the midst of the pain, families of victims of Shaken Baby Syndrome get a glimpse of a life that lies ahead. A life that still burns full of meaning... a life full of love. Click the Image to Play Video

Shaken Baby Syndrome Families Struggle with Lives Changed Forever in an Instant

Families of victims of SBS are in a lifelong struggle after their babies are abused. Click the Image to Play Video

Shaken Baby Syndrome Devastates

SBS affects more children than Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). SBS is a devastating form of child abuse that leaves those babies who survive the abuse with lifelong challenges. Click the Image to Play Video

Shaken Baby Syndrome Families Battle Immediate Fear & Infinite Worry

Families of victims of SBS deal with the immediate fear that their baby could die... and if their baby miraculously survives, fear turns to worry about how do you care for them now? Click the Image to Play Video

Shaken Baby Syndrome Families Fight for Justice They May Never See

Justice is often slow-moving or is never seen in many cases of Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS). Families of victims of SBS are left fighting for justice in the midst of the tragedy. Click the Image to Play Video

Shaken Baby Syndrome Families Find Love and Meaning through Tragedy

In the midst of the pain, families of victims of Shaken Baby Syndrome get a glimpse of a life that lies ahead. A life that still burns full of meaning... a life full of love. Click the Image to Play Video

DONATE NOW

Why Become a Rooted Monthly Giver?

When you join, you’re doing more than making a donation; you are helping to equip parents and caregivers nationwide with the skills and confidence to respond safely when babies won’t stop crying. Your support makes it possible for us to deliver expert-led education in hospitals, schools, clinics, and community centers. It also ensures that families affected by SBS/AHT receive the compassionate, trauma-informed guidance and resources they need to heal.

Monthly giving provides reliable funding, which helps the NCSBS plan ahead and expand our programs where they are needed most. Even a modest monthly contribution of $5 adds up to a powerful, long-term impact. And once your gift is set up, it runs automatically, allowing you to make a difference every day without lifting a finger.

Any Additional Benefits to Rooted Monthly Giving?

Absolutely. Here are a few of additional perks for our monthly givers:

• Special monthly social media posts across our channels thanking and listing the names of our monthly givers
• Rooted Monthly givers will be featured in our Giving Times Newsletter distributed to thousands of our donors and supporters
• Feature story for any Rooted Monthly giver who wishes to be share their story of why they became a monthly giver
• First access to special events and giveaways conducted by the NCSBS
• Complimentary Blu-ray of the documentary "like, share, comment & subscribe" featuring the story of Josh Sorrels, victim of shaken baby syndrome
• Complimentary book "Claire's Voice" written by Michelle Fishpaw, mother of Claire, victim of shaken baby syndrome, about their family's experience raising a survivor of SBS/AHT

To become a Rooted Monthly giver, simply put the amount you wish to donate on a monthly basis on our donation form and check the box "Make this donation Monthly" on the form and schedule the donation for at least one year (12 times).

Donate Now

Attention on Prevention podcast brings in guests to talk about the prevention of child and infant maltreatment as well as delve into other parenting issues. We'll bring in families of victims of abuse and victims themselves to discuss their stories, world experts in various medical fields to discuss current research and past experiences as well as other guests with legal and prevention backgrounds. Brought to you by the National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome. You can find each month's episode here on our website or wherever you get your podcasts.

Twentieth International Conference on Shaken Baby Syndrome / Abusive Head Trauma

Loews Vanderbilt Hotel - Nashville, TN

September 22, 23, and 24, 2026

The National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome is pleased to announce our twentieth biennial conference will be in Nashville on September 22, 23 and 24, 2026. This three-day conference brings together leading physicians, neuroscientists, child protection specialists, and legal professionals to present the latest scientific research and evidence-based practices on SBS/AHT. As misinformation continues to spread in public discourse, this trusted forum provides clarity, truth, and collaboration among the world’s foremost authorities.

Participants will explore topics on diagnosis, prevention, and family support services—gaining valuable tools and insights to strengthen their practice and impact.

This milestone event promises to be an inspiring, informative, and unforgettable gathering—we can’t wait to see you there.

Return to this page and follow our social media channels for the latest updates on the conference. Click this link for information on the Loews Vanderbilt Hotel.

Abstract Submission

Interested in presenting at the Twentieth International Conference on Shaken Baby Syndrome/Abusive Head Trauma? Join other world-renowned experts and share your latest research, policies, investigative techniques, legal expertise and prevention efforts focused on shaken baby syndrome/abusive head trauma.

The NCSBS is now accepting abstracts for workshop and poster presentations. The program planning committee is looking for abstracts to present from the following areas of expertise: 

• Latest medical diagnostic and treatment of SBS/AHT cases
• Investigative and legal procedures and techniques
• Evidence-based and creative SBS/AHT prevention initiatives and programs
• Support for families and rehabilitation for victims of SBS/AHT

All contact information must be included as well as a thorough biography. The abstract will need to be submitted as a separate document with a word minimum of 200 words and a maximum of 1000. The abstract file must be uploaded as a Microsoft Word or PDF document. Please note: presentations with commercial interest will not be accepted.

Accepted abstract presenters will be responsible for own travel and registration costs. Co-authors presenting must also register for the conference.

Please Read the Abstract Submission Requirements Document Before Submitting an Abstract
Abstract Submission Requirements

DEADLINE EXTENDED: Abstracts Due February 27, 2026

Any questions can be directed to the NCSBS Conference Team at (801) 447-9360 or .

Submit Your Abstract

Registration is OPEN!

2026 Registration Prices

*Requires a field of study/year and affiliations for registration
**Email  for information on registering as a group
**Requires that groups register together and pay in full as one transaction

Registration rates include access to all keynote, breakout sessions and opening reception. The NCSBS will provide two breaks per day which includes coffee and snack items. Lunch is on your own.

Register for the conference by clicking this button: REGISTER NOW

Babies and Toddlers (BaT) Baby Bootcamp for Trauma Investigators

The NCSBS in partnership with Babies and Toddlers, Inc will be hosting an investigators' bootcamp directly before the SBS/AHT conference on Monday, September 21, 2026.  The bootcamp offers specific, practical investigative and courtroom training for any law enforcement or legal professional involved in these complex cases. You can register for the Bootcamp as an add-on to the International Conference on SBS/AHT or you can register to attend the Bootcamp only. An agenda and more details will be available soon.

Conference Loyalty Program

Don't forget that if you attended our 2022 International Conference on Shaken Baby Syndrome / Abusive Head Trauma (SBS/AHT) in Philadelphia and/or the 2024 conference in Salt Lake City you save up to 15% on your individual registration price. This discount cannot be combined with anyone receiving the group discount. Our Conference Attendee Loyalty Program introduced at the Philadelphia conference rewards our frequent attendees and places attendees in three tiers*:

• Ally: Earn 10% off registration fees after attending one conference
  • Use Coupon Code "AllyNash2026" in the registration form**
• Supporter: Earn 15% off after two conferences attended
  • Use Coupon Code "Supporter2026" in the registration form**
• Champion: Earn 20% off after three conferences attended

* Attendance credit began with the 2022 Philadelphia conference.
** The NCSBS will confirm eligibility for this coupon code. Anyone ineligible who uses this code will be required to pay the difference prior to attending the conference.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellations 30 days or sooner before the conference will not be accepted. Cancellations more than 30 days prior to the conference are subject to a $50 cancellation fee.

Email Catherine at  or call 801-447-9360 ext.112 if you have any questions about the conference.

The NCSBS recognizes that families and caregivers of victims of SBS may need additional support and services during their stay in Nashville. The Loews Vanderbilt Hotel offers multiple accessible rooms and can accommodate additional requests to help make your stay as stress free as possible. Click this link for more information about the hotel's accessibility options. For a guide to navigating accessibility in Nashville, please visit this link.

Financial Support

Limited funding is available this year to provide scholarships to families of victims of SBS/AHT. Families who have not attended an SBS/AHT Conference in the past or who have not received a scholarship from the NCSBS will be given priority. These funds shall be used exclusively towards hotel and travel costs. This assistance will be awarded in amounts up to $1,000. Funds will be reimbursed at the beginning of the conference with the submission of all applicable receipts. To apply for the scholarship, please fill out the application at the link below. A committee will review all applications award based on financial need and desired outcomes of conference attendance.

Scholarships are available thanks to the generous support of:

Applying for scholarships does not guarantee you will receive assistance.

Fill Out the Scholarship Application in the Google Form at this link. Please email with any questions.

Presents The

Virtual Family Support Symposium

May 14, 2025

The Virtual Family Support Symposium will be held on a virtual format and will feature presentations addressing many of the issues that families of victims of Shaken Baby Syndrome/Abusive Head Trauma (SBS/AHT) face.

Registration is FREE!

Attendance for this event will be FREE to everyone who would like to participate thanks to the generosity of the Matty Eappen Foundation! Though attendance is free for all participants, registration is required in order to receive information regarding symposium updates, announcements, and Zoom instructions.

This symposium will not be offering any continuing education units (CEUs) and will program presentations that are relevant and valuable to families of victims of SBS/AHT. These presentations might include topics like processing grief, resources to navigate available resources at the state and federal level, and therapies that may be available for victims of SBS/AHT for example.

For questions about the symposium, please contact the National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome:

Phone: (801) 447-9360 ext.105
Email:

Registration is Closed.

Announcing the full program for the 2026 Twentieth International Conference on Shaken Baby Syndrome/Abusive Head Trauma in Nashville:

The full program for the Twentieth International Conference on Shaken Baby Syndrome/Abusive Head Trauma is now available. The three-day schedule is available on our website at: http://dontshake.org/2026-program

You can view the morning and afternoon schedules for each day and download the full PDF program. Schedule is subject to change, so check back often to see the latest updates.