Child abuse is generally the mistreatment of a child by a parent or caregiver—through actions or inactions—that causes injury, death, or emotional harm to the child—or that places the child at serious risk of such injury, death, or emotional harm. Mistreatment that constitutes child abuse may take many forms, including neglect, physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, failure to supervise, and exploitation. Child abuse laws vary from state to state and are usually located in a state’s family code and criminal or penal code.

In Alabama, child abuse is addressed under both the Alabama Criminal Code and the Alabama Child Protection Act. The law defines child abuse as harm or threatened harm to a child's health or welfare which can occur through nonaccidental physical or mental injury, sexual abuse or attempted sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, or maltreatment. This includes acts of physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, and exploitation. Alabama law mandates that certain professionals, such as educators, medical personnel, and law enforcement officers, must report suspected child abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities, specifically the Department of Human Resources. Failure to report suspected abuse can result in legal consequences. When abuse is reported, the state's child welfare agency investigates the allegations and can take action to protect the child, including removing the child from the home if necessary. Criminal charges may also be filed against the perpetrator, which can lead to imprisonment, fines, and other penalties.