Types of Abuse
Physical abuse is when a person caring for a child causes physical injury that is not accidental. Reported injuries may include the following:
- Bruises
- Scratches
- Welts
- Burns
- Swelling
- More serious injuries such as scars or broken bones
- Hitting with a closed fist
- Choking
- Shaking an infant
Child sexual abuse is sexual contact with a minor. The contact may include the following:
- Touching on an intimate part of the body
- Having a child engage in sexual activities
- Exposing a child to pornographic or sexual material
- Involving a child in pornography or other sexual acts
Sexual exploitation of a minor includes the following:
- Use of a minor in a sexual performance
- Threats or coercion of a minor to engage in sexual contact or penetration
- Solicitation of a child to engage in sexual conduct
- Any sexual penetration or sexual contact in exchange for something of value
Child neglect is the failure by a person responsible for a child's care to supply the following:
- Necessary food, clothing or shelter
- Health, medical or other care
- Age-appropriate supervision (Supervision guidelines)
- Education (More information on school attendance)
Neglect by a person responsible for a child's care can also include:
- Chronic use of alcohol or drugs
- Dangerous conditions of the home
- Prenatal exposure to drugs or alcohol
Substantial child endangerment is when a child is put in dangerous situations. These situations will likely cause harm to their physical, mental or emotional health. This can include:
- Sexual abuse
- Driving while intoxicated
- Living with a predatory offender
- Allowing access to loaded firearms
A statement or act that exposes a child to risk of physical or sexual abuse or mental injury. This can include:
- Exposure to domestic violence
- Failing to protect from serious harm
Mental injury is a pattern of behavior by a parent or caregiver that harms a child's mental health. This harm must be significant and observable and can include the following:
- Rejecting
- Isolating
- Terrorizing
- Corrupting
Labor trafficking is a mandated report even if the perpetrator is not a caregiver. Labor trafficking is when a child is compelled to work or provide services to another person by use of:
- Force
- Threats
- Intimidation
- Coercion
- Debt bondage