Which statement defines emotional abuse?

• A. Physical harm
• B. Caregiver causes or allows a situation resulting in mental distress
• C. Sexual exploitation
• D. Neglect of basic needs

Answer: (B)

Emotional abuse happens when a caregiver’s words or actions, or failure to act, harm a child’s emotional well-being and cause mental distress. The statement that caregiver-causes or allows a situation resulting in mental distress fits this exactly, because it focuses on the impact on the child’s inner state, not on physical injury or sexual harm. Emotional abuse can include constant belittling, humiliation, threats, or withholding affection, and it may occur even without physical injuries, yet its effects on self-esteem and mental health can be long-lasting. By contrast, physical harm describes physical abuse, sexual exploitation is sexual abuse, and neglect of basic needs falls under neglect, not emotional abuse.