Which of the following defines child abuse?

The definition of child abuse encompasses actions that cause physical harm or pose a threat to a child’s welfare. The option that indicates physical injury or death inflicted upon a child by a parent or caretaker precisely fits this definition. Child abuse is often categorized by the severe consequences of such actions, which can lead to long-lasting psychological and physical effects.

Physical abuse typically includes behaviors such as hitting, kicking, or inflicting any form of physical harm that can result in injury or even death. This definition recognizes the direct harm that can occur in abusive situations, highlighting the serious nature of the actions taken against a child by those responsible for their care.

While neglect, emotional trauma, and educational neglect are also serious issues affecting children, they fall more into categories of child maltreatment rather than direct abuse. Neglect and denial of needs refer to the omission of care rather than the act of inflicting harm. Emotional trauma, while impactful, is often a result of various parenting styles and not necessarily indicative of abusive behavior. Educational neglect relates to schooling but does not impact the physical safety of a child in the same way that physical abuse does. Thus, the option focusing on physical injury or death represents the most accurate definition of child abuse in this context.