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 North Carolina, child abuse is addressed under both civil and criminal statutes, designed to protect children from harm and to hold perpetrators accountable. The law defines child abuse broadly to include physical injury, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, and acts of neglect by a parent or caregiver that result in harm or potential harm to a child. North Carolina General Statutes (NCGS) §7B-101 and §14-318.4 detail the definitions and penalties for child abuse. Mandatory reporting laws require certain professionals, such as educators and healthcare providers, to report suspected cases of child abuse to the Department of Social Services. Failure to report can result in legal consequences. When abuse is reported, the child may be removed from the abusive environment, and the abuser may face criminal charges, which can range from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the severity of the abuse. The state also provides services aimed at preventing abuse and supporting affected children and families.