What is the definition of "institutional abuse" in Pennsylvania?

The definition of "institutional abuse" in Pennsylvania specifically refers to abuse that occurs within an institution, such as a school or childcare facility. This type of abuse involves a setting where individuals are entrusted with the care and supervision of children, and it is important to establish standards of care and protection in these environments.

Recognizing the unique responsibility that institutions have towards the well-being of minors, cases of institutional abuse highlight the potential for abuse perpetrated by individuals in positions of authority or trust within these facilities. The focus on institutional settings underscores the need for vigilance and appropriate reporting mechanisms to protect vulnerable populations in structured environments.

Other types of abuse, such as that occurring between family members or within private residences, do not fall under the classification of institutional abuse. Likewise, while anonymous reporting can be a mechanism for bringing attention to suspected abuse, it does not define a specific category of abuse in legal terms.