Physical Abuse is non-accidental physical injury (ranging from minor bruises to severe fractures or death) as a result of punching, beating, kicking, biting, shaking, throwing, stabbing, choking, hitting (with a hand, stick, strap, or other objects), burning or otherwise harming a child. It can be inflicted by a parent, caregiver, or any other person who has responsibility for the child. Such injury is considered abuse regardless of whether the caregiver intended to hurt the child. Physical discipline, such as spanking or paddling, is not considered abuse if it is reasonable and causes no bodily injury to the child.

Sexual Abuse includes activities by any adult or older child such as fondling a child’s genitals, penetration, incest, rape, sodomy, indecent exposure, and exploitation through prostitution or the production of pornographic materials.

Emotional Abuse or Psychological Abuse is a pattern of behavior that impairs a child’s emotional development or sense of self-worth. This may include constant criticism, threats or rejection, as well as withholding love, support, or guidance. Emotional abuse is often difficult to prove and, therefore, child protective services may not be able to intervene without evidence of harm or mental injury to the child. Emotional abuse is almost always present when other forms are identified.

Neglect is the failure of a parent, guardian, or other caregivers to provide for a child’s basic needs. Neglect may be:

• Physical, for example, a failure to provide necessary food or shelter, or lack of appropriate supervision.
• Medical, such as a failure to provide necessary medical or mental health treatment.
• Educational, should the caregiver fail to educate a child or attend to special education needs.
• Emotional, such as inattention to a child’s emotional needs, failure to provide psychological care, or permitting the child to use alcohol or other drugs.

Allen County Children Services assesses allegations of possible abuse or neglect based on reports received from the community. Some individuals, including physicians, teachers, social workers, daycare providers, etc., are required by law to report their concerns to the agency.