This glossary includes important terms used throughout the book to help readers understand the language of child protection. Clear definitions empower parents, caregivers, teachers, and communities to take informed action.
Abuse
Any action (or inaction) by a caregiver, adult, or person in authority that causes harm to a child. Includes physical, emotional, sexual abuse, and neglect.
Abuser / Perpetrator
A person who harms a child through abuse. This may be someone known to the child (family, teacher) or a stranger.
Betrayal Trauma
Emotional harm caused when someone the child depends on—like a parent or teacher—becomes the source of abuse.
Child Protection
All actions taken to prevent, identify, respond to, and recover from abuse, violence, or exploitation of children.
Consent
Permission given freely and clearly. Children cannot legally consent to sexual activity, regardless of what they say or how they behave.
Disclosure
When a child tells someone they are being abused. Disclosures may be direct (clearly spoken) or indirect (through behavior, drawings, or hints).
Emotional Abuse
Using words, threats, or actions to control, shame, isolate, or belittle a child. Includes yelling, name-calling, and constant criticism.
Grooming
A manipulative process where an abuser builds trust with a child (and often their family) to prepare them for abuse. May involve gifts, secrecy, or affection.
Mandated Reporter
A person (such as a teacher, doctor, or social worker) who is legally required to report suspected child abuse to authorities.
Neglect
Failure to provide a child's basic needs—such as food, shelter, medical care, supervision, or emotional support.
Non-Consensual Touch
Any form of physical contact that happens without clear, willing, and informed permission—especially when it involves private parts or causes discomfort.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
A mental health condition caused by trauma. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance, fear, and emotional numbness.
Resilience
A child's ability to recover or "bounce back" from difficult experiences with the help of support, love, and healing environments.
Safe Touch / Unsafe Touch
Safe touch includes appropriate and welcomed physical contact (like a high-five or a hug with consent). Unsafe touch causes fear, pain, or confusion—especially when it involves private areas.
Sexual Abuse
Any sexual behavior forced upon a child—whether through touch, exposure, words, or exploitation. This includes both physical and non-physical actions.
Survivor
A person who has experienced and lived through abuse. This term is preferred over "victim" to highlight strength and recovery.
Trauma
The emotional and psychological response to a deeply distressing experience, such as abuse. Trauma can affect thoughts, feelings, behavior, and development.