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 Nevada, child abuse is addressed under both the Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) and various state regulations that define and govern the treatment of children. Child abuse encompasses physical, sexual, emotional abuse, neglect, endangerment, and exploitation. According to NRS 432B.220, abuse or neglect of a child is defined as physical or mental injury of a non-accidental nature, sexual abuse or exploitation, or negligent treatment or maltreatment of a child under circumstances which indicate that the child's health or welfare is harmed or threatened. Nevada law mandates that certain professionals, such as teachers and healthcare providers, must report suspected child abuse or neglect to child protective services or law enforcement agencies. Failure to report can result in penalties. The state takes allegations of child abuse seriously, and upon substantiation, offenders can face severe legal consequences, including criminal charges that range from misdemeanors to felonies depending on the severity of the abuse.