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 Rhode Island, child abuse is defined and regulated under both civil and criminal statutes. According to Rhode Island General Laws § 40-11-2, child abuse includes physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, neglect, or maltreatment of a child by a parent, guardian, or caregiver that results in harm or substantial risk of harm to the child's health or welfare. Neglect refers to the failure to provide necessary food, clothing, shelter, medical care, or supervision appropriate for the child's age and development. The law mandates that certain professionals, such as educators, healthcare providers, and social workers, must report suspected child abuse to the Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF). Failure to report can result in penalties. Additionally, perpetrators of child abuse can face criminal charges under various sections of the Rhode Island General Laws, which may include assault, sexual assault, or endangerment, with penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment, depending on the severity of the abuse.