What is child abuse?

Child abuse is a broad term that refers to any action that causes harm to a child. It encompasses physical, emotional, and psychological abuse, as well as neglect. Physical abuse is when an adult inflicts physical pain or injury on a child. Examples include hitting, pushing, or shaking a child, burning or choking them, and using objects to hurt a child. Emotional abuse is when an adult uses words or actions to destroy a child’s emotional wellbeing. Examples include name-calling, belittling, manipulating, or isolating a child from family and friends. Psychological abuse involves an adult manipulating a child’s thought process. Examples include controlling a child’s decision-making, withholding communication, or using nonverbal tactics to shame a child. Neglect is when an adult fails to provide a child with necessary care like food, clothing, or shelter. In West Virginia, child abuse is a crime and is taken very seriously. If a parent or guardian is found guilty of child abuse, they can face serious legal consequences, such as fines, jail time, and the loss of visitation rights and custody. It is important to report any suspicion of child abuse to the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources.

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