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 Georgia, child abuse is addressed under both the criminal statutes and the juvenile code. The law defines child abuse as physical injury or death inflicted upon a child by a parent or caretaker, either intentionally or through negligence, as well as sexual abuse or exploitation. Neglect, which can include failure to provide adequate food, shelter, clothing, or medical care, is also considered a form of child abuse. Emotional abuse, which may involve actions that cause serious mental injury to a child, is recognized as well. Mandatory reporting laws in Georgia require certain professionals, such as educators and healthcare providers, to report suspected child abuse to the appropriate authorities. The Georgia Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS) is typically involved in investigating reports of child abuse and taking protective action when necessary. Penalties for those convicted of child abuse can include imprisonment, fines, and loss of parental rights, depending on the severity of the abuse.