Which type of abuse is characterized by causing bodily harm?

Physical abuse is characterized by actions that result in bodily harm to an individual. This can include hitting, slapping, burning, or any form of physical violence that inflicts injury or pain. It is important to recognize that physical abuse can have severe short-term and long-term effects on a person's well-being, both physically and emotionally.

In the context of child care and protection, physical abuse is a significant concern because it undermines the safety and security that children need for healthy development. The identification and reporting of physical abuse are crucial for ensuring that children are protected and that appropriate interventions can be implemented to safeguard their welfare.

The other types of abuse mentioned differ in their nature: sexual abuse involves coercion for sexual purposes and may not necessarily result in visible bodily harm, verbal abuse is characterized by the use of words to negatively impact someone's mental state without physical injury, and neglect refers to the failure to provide necessary care, which can lead to physical or emotional harm but is distinct from the direct infliction of injury associated with physical abuse. Understanding these differences is essential for those involved in child care and protection efforts.