What is needed for child abuse to occur under Pennsylvania law?

Under Pennsylvania law, for an incident to qualify as child abuse, there must be a child involved. The law defines a child as an individual under the age of 18, who can be subjected to various forms of abuse, including physical, emotional, sexual abuse, or neglect. The presence of a child is essential in determining whether an abusive situation falls within the legal definition of child abuse.

The other options, while they may relate to factors surrounding the circumstances of abuse, do not constitute the necessary legal criteria. A responsible adult may be involved, but their presence alone does not define child abuse. A safe environment is crucial for the well-being of a child, and financial stability may impact child safety and welfare, but neither is a requirement for the legal definition of child abuse itself. The fundamental requirement is the existence of a child.