Today in the United States a child is abused every 10 seconds. At least three children under the age of five are victims of abuse everyday.
Child abuse occurs in all cultural, ethnic, occupational, and socioeconomic groups.
It's the most difficult type to define, yet often the most destructive. It involves continual belittling and berating of the child and tearing down self-esteem. Emotional abuse is often a component of physical or sexual abuse. Physical Abuse Physical Abuse occurs when a child is physically hit, hurt, and marred with marks. Objects or fists are used to harm the child.