Child abuse refers to any form of physical, emotional or sexual mistreatment or neglect of a child by an adult. It can take many forms including hitting, kicking, shaking, biting, burning, scalding, poisoning, drowning, suffocating, starving, freezing, humiliation, verbal abuse and sexual assault. Child abuse is never justified under any circumstances and it can have long-lasting effects on a child's physical, emotional and mental wellbeing. It is important that anyone who suspects or knows of an instance of child abuse reports it to the appropriate authorities so that action can be taken to protect the child and prevent further harm.