About Child Abuse
What is Child Abuse?
Child abuse is harm or threatened harm to a child's health or welfare which can occur through non-accidental physical or mental injury; sexual abuse or attempted sexual abuse; sexual exploitation or attempted sexual exploitation.
What is Child Neglect?
Negligent treatment or maltreatment of a child including the failure to provide adequate food, medical treatment, clothing, or shelter.
Exception: A parent or guardian legitimately practicing his religious beliefs and does not provide medical treatment for a child. This does not preclude a court from ordering the medical services to be provided where the child's health requires it.
Types of Abuse
• Physical
• Emotional
• Sexual
• Neglect
Physical Abuse
Occurs when a child's body is injured as a result of hitting, kicking, shaking, burning, or other show of force.
Emotional Abuse
• Results from any form of abuse or neglect
• Can be associated with verbal abuse, which can harm a child’s self-worth or emotional well-being
Sexual Abuse
Any sexual activity that a child cannot comprehend or consent to includes:
• Fondling
• Oral-genital contact
• Genital and anal intercourse
• Exhibitionism
• Voyeurism
• Exposure to pornography
Neglect
• Physical neglect -- Failing to provide food, clothing, shelter, or other physical necessities
• Emotional neglect -- Failing to provide love, comfort, or affection
• Medical neglect -- Failing to provide needed medical care