What is abuse?

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Emotional and verbal abuse is anything said or done that is hurtful or threatening to a child and is the most difficult form of maltreatment to identify.  

Sexual abuse is any inappropriate touching by a friend, family member, anyone having on-going contact, and/or a stranger.  

Physical abuse is any type of contact that results in bodily harm, such as bruising, abrasions, broken bones, internal injuries, burning, missing teeth, and skeletal injuries.  

Neglect means not meeting the basic needs of the child and is the most common form of maltreatment .

Report any suspected abuse immediately. 

Call the Mississippi Child Abuse Hotline at 800-222-8000 or report abuse at:

https://reportabuse.mdcps.ms.gov/