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 Wyoming, child abuse is defined and governed by both civil and criminal statutes. Under Wyoming law, child abuse can include physical, emotional, or sexual harm to a child, as well as neglect or abandonment. The state's statutes require certain professionals and individuals, such as teachers and healthcare providers, to report suspected child abuse to the Department of Family Services or law enforcement. Failure to report can result in penalties. The Wyoming Child Protective Services Act is one of the key pieces of legislation that outlines the procedures for reporting and investigating child abuse. Additionally, perpetrators of child abuse can face criminal charges under Wyoming's criminal code, which may result in fines, imprisonment, or both. The severity of the punishment often depends on the nature and severity of the abuse. Child abuse cases are taken very seriously in Wyoming, and the state works to ensure the protection and welfare of children through its legal framework.