Most jurisdictions classify child abuse crimes as physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, or neglect. Any act or failure to act which results in harm, death, or exploitation of a child qualifies as abuse. Prevention involves education and community support.
Physical child abuse occurs when a parent or guardian deliberately injures a child. Emotional abuse often accompanies the physical acts and may consist of berating the child, bullying, withholding affection, and exposure to criminal or violent elements. Children who are physically abused may have unexplained injuries, frequent hospital visits, and many absences from school.
Fondling, rape, child pornography and prostitution of a child for exploitation or pleasure of adults is sexual abuse. In many jurisdictions, a consensual relationship with an underage teenager can be charged as statutory rape. Sexual abuse is often referred to as "soul murder" because of the emotional damage it inflicts. Child abuse crimes of a sexual nature are outlawed in nearly every country and carry severe penalties.
Neglect is a lack of basic nurturing, such as food, adequate clothing and shelter, or emotional needs. Failure to seek medical attention when necessary or educate children are also considered neglect. Parents may unintentionally commit these child abuse crimes through economic circumstances, mental illness, or a lack of education. Abandonment falls under neglect statutes, although many areas have protections allowing parents to leave children at a health care facility or designated safe point.
Child abuse crimes are considered felonies if they result in serious physical harm, such as injury, coma, or death. These outcomes are mostly seen in physical abuse or extreme neglect cases. Abuse-related delays in growth and development may cause permanent disability. While emotional abuse does not qualify under most felony laws unless harm can be shown, it leaves deep emotional scars that affect every aspect of a person’s life.
As mandated, reporters, teachers, clergy, and health care workers are obligated by law to disclose instances of suspected child abuse crimes. Signs include emotional and behavioral changes and a general lack of care. Dirty clothing, neglected injuries or illness, and an indifferent or irrational parent warrant investigation. Concerned citizens can report anonymously, either to the agency responsible for child protection or the police if serious harm is imminent.
Community involvement is the best way to prevent child abuse crimes. Parents and children can both benefit from early childhood programs that offer support and referral to other resources. Education, such as parenting classes, helps new moms and dads adjust and gain coping skills. Respite and crisis care programs give overwhelmed parents a safety valve for their own stress and keep them from having to leave children with an inappropriate caregiver.