WHAT IS CHILD ABUSE?
WHAT IS CHILD ABUSE? Child abuse is the wrongful treatment of a child. It may be in the form of physical, emotional , or sexual abuse . This form of abuse may also be recognized as the exploitation of a child, as well as the failure to properly care for a child, otherwise known as neglect. Most U.S. child abuse laws agree on this definition of child abuse: Any intentional harm or mistreatment of a child under age 18 is abuse and a criminal offense. What is incest? Incest is a sexual act between family members who are too closely related to be legally married. The sex act can be anything from fondling to intercourse. Any sexual act with a child is abuse. Behavioral Cues of Child Abuse Excessive crying in infants Nightmares Bedwetting Poor concentration Eating issues Displays fear around parents/caregivers Poor performance at school What increases a person’s risk for abusing a child? having a substance use disorder physical or mental health conditions, such as dep...