Definitions of Child Abuse and Possible Indicators of Harm

Child Abuse can be defined as an act, or failure to act, on the part of a parent, guardian and / or caregiver that results in the death, serious physical or emotional harm, sexual abuse, or exploitation of a child, or which places the child in an imminent risk of serious harm, and / or seriously impacts the child’s long-term development and potential.  This brief covers the four main areas of abuse: physical, sexual, emotional and neglect. Each of these areas includes lists of possible behavioural and physical indicators known to be associated with that type of abuse. Cumulative harm is also defined at the end of the selection and should not be forgotten.