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 Oregon, child abuse laws are designed to protect children from harm and to hold perpetrators accountable for their actions. Child abuse encompasses a range of behaviors, including physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Under Oregon law, physical abuse involves intentionally causing physical injury to a child, while sexual abuse includes any sexual conduct with a child. Emotional abuse refers to conduct that harms a child's psychological well-being. Neglect, the failure to provide for a child's basic needs, is also considered abuse. Oregon law mandates that certain professionals, such as teachers and healthcare providers, must report suspected child abuse to the authorities. Failure to report can result in penalties. The state's statutes regarding child abuse can be found in the Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS), particularly in the family and criminal code sections. These laws outline the definitions, reporting requirements, and legal consequences for individuals found guilty of child abuse. The Department of Human Services (DHS) is the primary agency responsible for investigating and responding to reports of child abuse in Oregon.