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 Virginia, child abuse is defined and regulated under both civil and criminal statutes. The Code of Virginia § 63.2-100 defines an 'abused or neglected child' as any child under 18 whose parent or caregiver causes or threatens to cause a non-accidental physical or mental injury, or engages in acts that create a substantial risk of such injury. This includes physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, and abandonment. The law requires mandatory reporting from professionals and citizens who suspect child abuse, as outlined in § 63.2-1509. Failure to report suspected abuse can result in fines and legal consequences. Criminal charges for child abuse can range from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the severity of the abuse, with penalties including fines, imprisonment, and loss of parental rights. Virginia's Department of Social Services is tasked with investigating reports of child abuse and taking appropriate action, which may include removing the child from the home if necessary for their safety.