Although all violent crimes are condemned by society, special repugnance is reserved for those who commit the crime of child abuse. This involves harm committed against a child and extends to all potential abusers, including parents, caretakers, coaches, or other individuals who are responsible for a child’s health and wellbeing.

These laws exist at both the state and federal levels and include the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA), which is intended to help prevent child abuse in all forms.

The Many Forms of Abuse

Like domestic abuse, child abuse can take many forms. While we typically think of child abuse when we hear reports of a child who was shaken, beaten, or otherwise physically harmed, this is only the most overt form of abuse.

Children may face psychological and emotional abuse in the form of comments meant to deprive a child of his or her self-worth.

Sexual abuse is also prevalent between abusers and children and may result from relationships where an adult exerts significant power or control over a child.

Since abuse often arises from exploitation of a power dynamic, child abusers are not always parents or other biological relatives.

Instead, abuse may come from any adult who engages with a child, including a babysitter, coach, or teacher.

In addition to child abuse charges that arise from actions an adult takes against a minor, child abuse may also be the result of an adult’s failure to properly take care of a child for whom he or she is legally responsible.

If a parent or guardian fails to feed a child, provide necessary medical treatments, or satisfy basic needs, this can lead to criminal charges or a case of child neglect in civil court.