That's why it's so important to know the signs of abuse and neglect, and to take the right action when we see them. This guide will tell you how to do that. It also offers advice on preventing abuse. Whether they're our own children, our neighbours', or a stranger's, we all share responsibility for their well-being. We owe it to them to do whatever we can to keep childhood a safe place to be.
Child abuse occurs with alarming frequency.
As public awareness of the subject has grown, so have the numbers of reported and confirmed cases. The following definitions are adapted from B.C.'s child protection legislation, the Child, Family and Community Service Act. Physical abuse is any physical force or action that results, or could result, in injury to a child. It's stronger than what would be considered reasonable discipline. Sexual abuse is the use of a child for sexual gratification.