Physical, emotional, or sexual mistreatment of a child is referred to as which?

• A. Child abuse
• B. Elderly abuse
• C. Mafia
• D. Credit card crimes

Answer: (A)

Physical, emotional, or sexual mistreatment of a child is referred to as child abuse. It covers any intentional Harm or neglect toward a child by a caregiver or someone responsible for the child’s welfare, including actions like hitting, belittling or terrorizing, exploitation, or failing to provide basic needs. This term is the standard label used in laws, social services, and education to describe harm to minors and to trigger protective measures. The other terms refer to different contexts: elderly abuse targets older adults, the Mafia is an organized crime group, and credit card crimes involve financial fraud rather than harming a child. So the best term that captures mistreatment of a child is child abuse.