4 Things That Define as Child Abuse

Child abuse is a significant problem in the United States. It includes several types of maltreatment, all of which put innocent children’s lives at risk. While some forms of abuse like slapping or kicking are obvious, some people may not realize that neglect is also a form of abuse. If you’re not entirely sure what constitutes child abuse, this article is for you. If you or a loved one has suffered at the hands of an adult, reach out to an attorney like those at Gersowitz, Libo & Korek.

Causing Non-Accidental Injury to a Child

Any deliberate action which causes physical harm to a child is considered abuse. This includes beating, biting, kicking and hitting. Physical abuse is one of the easiest forms of abuse to recognize. Children who have been physically abused may have bruises shaped like objects, burn marks, bite marks or unexplained broken bones. They may also show fear of a specific adult or become very scared when they make a mistake. Specific types of physical abuse include Shaken Baby Syndrome and Munchausen by Proxy Syndrome.

Any Sexual Contact Between an Adult and a Child

Children can’t legally consent to sexual activity. Therefore, any sexual behaviour between them and an adult is considered abuse. It doesn’t matter whether the adult believes the child agrees to the activity. Sexual abuse includes penetration and touching as well as non-contact forms of abuse like showing child pornography or flashing them. Prostituting children also counts as abuse. Children who are sexually abused may demonstrate age-inappropriate knowledge of sex or have difficulty walking or sitting. They may also begin wetting the bed or soiling themselves.

Ignoring a Child’s Emotional Needs

This type of abuse can be hard to prove, and it may not even be easy to identify. However, treating a child like they are unwanted, unloved or worthless is a form of abuse. When a caregiver withholds emotional support, avoids communication or humiliates the child, this behaviour can be considered abusive. The parent may refuse to hug or otherwise comfort the child, opt not to call them by name or ignore their presence.

Neglecting a Child’s Medical, Educational or Physical Needs

Neglect is a form of abuse characterized by the failure to meet a child’s basic needs. It is considered “abuse by omission” and it just as dangerous as physical or sexual abuse. Medical abuse refers to failing to provide dental or medical care with child needs. For example, a parent may notice a child’s illness getting worse but never try to get medical attention. Educational neglect involves not enrolling a child in school or seeking to get a special education if necessary. it can also include allowing the child to stay at home consistently when they should be in school. Physical neglect is when a caregiver doesn’t provide food, clothing, or a safe home for the child.

No child should have to experience any of the above behaviours. Unfortunately, many of them do. Some only disclose what happened when they become adults. If you want to take legal action against someone who abused you or a young relative, reach out to an attorney without delay.