Child abuse is when a parent or caregiver, whether through action or failing to act, causes injury, death, emotional harm, or risk of serious harm to a child. There are many forms of child maltreatment, including neglect, physical abuse, sexual abuse, exploitation, and emotional abuse.

Child abuse and neglect are serious public health problems that have been linked to Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) that can have a long-term impact on the health and wellbeing of the child. Child abuse and neglect are connected to other forms of violence through shared risk and protective factors. This means preventing child abuse and neglect can also prevent other forms of violence.

Adverse childhood experiences, or ACEs, are potentially traumatic events that occur in childhood (0-17 years). These traumatic events include:

• Experiencing violence, abuse, or neglect
• Witnessing violence in the home or community
• Having a family member attempt or die by suicide
• Growing up in an environment where their sense of safety, stability, and bonding are withheld
• Growing up in a household with substance misuse, mental health problems
• Instability due to parental separation or household members being in jail or prison

ACEs are linked to chronic health problems, mental illness, and substance misuse as an adult. ACEs can also negatively impact education and job opportunities. However, ACEs can be prevented.