What is child abuse and neglect?
Child abuse is the physical, sexual, or emotional maltreatment of a child (ages 0 to 18) by a parent, family member, other caregiver, or non-caregiver. Physical abuse will involve cuts, broken or fractured bones, burns, internal injuries, or severe and frequent bruising inflicted on a child by other than accidental means. Sexual abuse will involve sexual intercourse, other sexual contact, or exploitation. Emotional damage means harm to a child's psychological or intellectual functioning, exhibited to a severe degree.

Child neglect is the failure of a parent or other caregiver to provide necessary care (including supervision), food, clothing, shelter, and medical care - for reasons other than poverty - so as to seriously endanger the physical health of a child.

Show All Answers

1. What is child abuse and neglect?
2. What should I do if I believe that a child is abused or neglected?
3. How do I report concerns?
4. What if I'm not sure I should report?
5. Will the family know that I reported?
6. What will happen when I report child protection concerns?
7. What information is needed when I file a report?
8. What will happen when the social worker sees the child and family?
9. Will the child be removed from their family?
10. Will I learn the outcome?