Which of the following is NOT considered a form of child abuse?

Poverty is not classified as a form of child abuse because it represents a socioeconomic condition rather than a form of intentional harm or mistreatment directed toward a child. Child abuse encompasses actions or failures to act that are detrimental to a child's welfare and development, which includes neglect, sexual abuse, and emotional abuse. Each of these latter categories involves significant harm or the potential for harm that arises from direct actions or inactions by caregivers or adults in a child's life. In contrast, poverty may contribute to adverse outcomes for children, but it does not embody the intentional abuse or neglect that is typically defined within child protection laws and policies. Understanding this distinction is essential for recognizing the different dimensions of child welfare and the responsibilities of mandated reporters.