Child abuse is generally the mistreatment of a child by a parent or caregiver—through actions or inactions—that causes injury, death, or emotional harm to the child—or that places the child at serious risk of such injury, death, or emotional harm. Mistreatment that constitutes child abuse may take many forms, including neglect, physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, failure to supervise, and exploitation. Child abuse laws vary from state to state and are usually located in a state’s family code and criminal or penal code.

In Louisiana (LA), child abuse is addressed under both the state's Children's Code and the criminal statutes. The Children's Code defines abuse and neglect and sets forth the procedures for reporting and investigating allegations of child abuse. Louisiana law defines child abuse as the infliction of physical or mental injury upon a child through excessive or unreasonable corporal punishment, sexual abuse, or exploitation. Neglect is also considered a form of abuse and occurs when a caregiver fails to provide adequate care, supervision, food, clothing, shelter, or medical care for a child. The state mandates that certain professionals, such as teachers, healthcare providers, and law enforcement officers, must report suspected child abuse or neglect. Failure to report can result in penalties. The Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS) is the agency responsible for investigating reports of child abuse and neglect. Criminal charges for child abuse can range from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the severity of the abuse, and can result in imprisonment, fines, and a requirement to register as a child abuser.