Defining Child Abuse: What is it?

Child hugging stuffed bear.

Although there are many formal and acceptable definitions of child abuse, the following is offered as a guide for information on child abuse and neglect.

Child abuse consists of any act of commission or omission that endangers or impairs a child’s physical or emotional health and development. Child abuse includes any damage done to a child which cannot be reasonably explained and which is often represented by an injury or series of injuries appearing to be non-accidental in nature.

Forms of Child Abuse

For additional information regarding signs and symptoms of child abuse, view the What is Child Abuse page.

What do I do if I think someone is abusing a child?

If a child discloses that he or she has been abused by someone, it is important that you listen to them most of all.

  • Ask ONLY four questions
  • What happened?
  • Who did this to you?
  • Where were you when this happened?
  • When did this happen?
    Asking any additional questions may contaminate a case!

DO NOT

  • Investigate
  • Ask leading questions (a question that suggests the answer or contains the information the questioner is looking for – That man touched you, didn’t he?)
  • Make promises
  • Notify the parents or the caretaker

DO

  • Provide a safe environment (be comforting, welcoming, and a good listener)
  • Tell the child it was not his/her fault
  • Listen carefully
  • Document the child’s exact quotes
  • Be supportive, not judgmental
  • Know your limits
  • Tell the truth

If you suspect abuse, but a child has not disclosed it to you, call 1-800-4-A-CHILD. Our counselors can talk through the situation with you and help decide what the best course of action is.

Original source https://www.childhelp.org/educator-resources/defining-child-abuse/