Physical abuse

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
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Physical abuse
Synonyms	Physical violence, physical maltreatment
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	Psychiatry, Pediatrics, Emergency medicine
Symptoms	Bruises, fractures, lacerations, burns, internal injuries
Complications	Chronic pain, psychological trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder
Onset	Can occur at any age
Duration	Varies; can be acute or chronic
Types	N/A
Causes	Domestic violence, child abuse, elder abuse, bullying
Risks	Substance abuse, mental illness, history of abuse
Diagnosis	Physical examination, imaging studies, psychological evaluation
Differential diagnosis	Accidental injury, self-harm, medical conditions
Prevention	Education, support services, legal intervention
Treatment	Medical care, psychotherapy, social support
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Varies; depends on severity and intervention
Frequency	Common; varies by region and population
Deaths	N/A

Physical abuse is a form of abuse involving the use of physical force towards another person. This force can result in bodily injury, physical pain, impairment, or even death. Physical abuse can occur in a variety of contexts, including but not limited to, family settings, school environments, and workplaces.

Definition

Physical abuse is generally defined as any non-accidental physical act inflicted upon a person. It can include, but is not limited to, hitting, shaking, burning, choking, biting, throwing, beating, and other actions that cause physical injury, leave marks, or cause pain.

Types of Physical Abuse

There are several types of physical abuse, including:

• Domestic violence: This involves abuse by one person against another in a domestic setting, such as in marriage or cohabitation.
• Child abuse: This involves physical abuse directed towards a child by a parent, caregiver, or other family member.
• Elder abuse: This involves physical abuse directed towards an elderly person, often by a caregiver or family member.
• Bullying: This involves repeated physical abuse, often among school-aged children.

Effects of Physical Abuse

Physical abuse can have numerous physical and psychological effects on a person. These can include:

• Physical effects: These can include bruises, burns, fractures, and other physical injuries. In severe cases, physical abuse can lead to death.
• Psychological effects: These can include depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health disorders. Victims of physical abuse may also experience feelings of shame, guilt, and fear.

Prevention and Treatment

Prevention and treatment of physical abuse can involve a variety of strategies, including:

• Law enforcement: In many jurisdictions, physical abuse is a crime. Law enforcement agencies can play a key role in preventing physical abuse by enforcing laws and regulations that protect individuals from physical harm.
• Social services: Social service agencies can provide support and resources to victims of physical abuse, including counseling, shelter, and legal assistance.
• Education: Education and awareness campaigns can help to prevent physical abuse by informing individuals and communities about the signs of physical abuse and the resources available to help victims.

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