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 Indiana, child abuse laws are designed to protect children from harm and ensure their well-being. The Indiana Code addresses various forms of child abuse, including neglect, physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, and exploitation. Neglect refers to the failure of a parent or caregiver to provide necessary care, supervision, or support for the child, while physical abuse involves inflicting physical injury upon a child. Sexual abuse includes acts or behaviors that involve sexual gratification against a child, and emotional abuse refers to actions that cause or could cause serious emotional harm to a child. Indiana law mandates that certain professionals, such as teachers and healthcare providers, must report suspected child abuse or neglect to the Indiana Department of Child Services or law enforcement. Failure to report can result in criminal charges. The state takes allegations of child abuse seriously, and those found guilty of such offenses may face severe legal consequences, including criminal penalties and the potential loss of parental rights.