What is child abuse?
Child abuse is when abuse or violence happens to a minor (someone under age 18). No matter who is doing it, the law protects you from physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, harassment, domestic violence, and stalking.
Staying Safe
What is domestic violence?
Domestic violence happens when someone harms you (for example, hits, kicks, hurts, scares, throws things, pulls hair, pushes, follows, harasses, sexually assaults, etc.) or threatens to harm you.
What is dating violence?
Dating violence is a form of domestic violence when the person you are dating hurts or threatens you. Dating violence includes physical, sexual, and emotional abuse.
What is sexual assault?
Sexual assault is someone forcing or pressuring you into sexual activity.
What is rape?
Rape is one kind of sexual assault. Rape means forcing someone to have sexual intercourse.
When is sex considered child abuse?
Mandated reporters must tell the police or CPS if they “reasonably suspect” child abuse. Child abuse can mean physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, and sometimes even sex that you agreed to have.
What should I do if I am raped?
If you are raped, get help as soon as you can. Call 911 and go to the nearest hospital. You can also take additional steps to get care after a rape.
What if I am raped and worried about getting pregnant?
If you are raped and worried about getting pregnant, there are steps you can take to protect yourself. Go get help immediately and get yourself to a hospital or health care provider.
What if someone makes me feel afraid?
If someone makes you feel afraid, there are laws to protect you.
What if I am worried about being hurt?
If you’re worried about being hurt, first make sure you are safe.
What if the police ask me questions?
You do not have to answer their questions. But you can if you want to.