DEFINITION IN PHILIPPINE LAW

The Special Protection of Children Against Child Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act or Republic Act 7610 (Art.1 Sec. 3) defines child abuse as maltreatment, whether habitual or not.

• A person who is below 18 years old or those over but are unable to fully take care of themselves from abuse, neglect, cruelty, exploitation or discrimination because of physical or mental disability or condition.
  
• By a person who is responsible for the child's welfare.
  Under circumstances which gravely threaten or endanger the survival and normal development of children.