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Physical Abuse

Generally, physical abuse is characterized by physical injury, such as bruises and fractures that result from:

• Punching
• Beating
• Kicking
• Biting
• Shaking
• Throwing
• Stabbing
• Choking
• Hitting with a hand, stick, strap, or other object
• Burning

Although an injury resulting from physical abuse is not accidental, the parent or caregiver may not have intended to hurt the child. The injury may have resulted from severe discipline, including injurious spanking, or physical punishment that is inappropriate to the child's age or condition. The injury may be the result of a single episode or repeated episodes and can range in severity from minor marks and bruising to death.

As Howard Dubowitz, a leading researcher in the field explains: "While cultural practices are generally respected, if the injury or harm is significant, professionals typically work with parents to discourage harmful behavior and suggest preferable alternatives."¹

• Signs of physical abuse
• Shaken baby syndrome
• Related resources

¹Adapted from J. Goldman, M. K. Salus, D. Wolcott, and K. Y. Kennedy. (2003). A coordinated response to child abuse and neglect: The foundation for practice. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Retrieved June 2006 from http://www.childwelfare.gov/pubs/usermanuals/foundation/foundationc.cfm (back)

Selected Resources Victims by Maltreatment Type, 2007 Children's Bureau, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (2009) In Child Maltreatment 2007 Provides State-by-State data related to the major types of child abuse and neglect. What Is Child Maltreatment? Office on Child Abuse and Neglect (HHS) User Manual Series (2003) In A Coordinated Response to Child Abuse and Neglect: The Foundation for Practice Presents general definitions by type of maltreatment.

	Related Information Gateway Topics Child abuse & neglect: Defining child abuse & neglect Child abuse & neglect: Identifying child abuse & neglect Child abuse & neglect: Prevalence by type of abuse Child abuse & neglect: Perpetrators of certain types of abuse Child abuse & neglect: Risk factors for physical abuse Child abuse & neglect: Impact of physical abuse

Updated on February 24, 2010