Vermont law (33.V.S.A. 49, § 4912) defines an abused or neglected child as one whose physical health, psychological growth and development or welfare is harmed or is at substantial risk of harm by the acts or omissions of his or her parent or other person responsible for the child's welfare. It also means a child who is sexually abused or at substantial risk of sexual abuse by any person.

Harm can occur by:

1. Abandonment of the child;
2. Emotional maltreatment;
3. Neglect;
4. Physical injury; or
5. Sexual abuse.

Risk of Harm means a significant danger that a child will suffer serious harm other than by accidental means, which harm would be likely to cause physical injury, neglect, emotional maltreatment, or sexual abuse.

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Definitions:

Child:
An individual under age 18.

Emotional Maltreatment:
A pattern of malicious behavior, which results in impaired psychological growth and development.

Neglect:
Failure to supply a child with adequate food, clothing, shelter or health care.

Physical Injury:
Death, permanent or temporary disfigurement, or impairment of any bodily organ or function other than by accidental means.

Sexual Abuse:
Any act or acts by any person involving sexual molestation or exploitation of a child including but not limited to incest, prostitution, rape, sodomy, or any lewd and lascivious conduct involving a child. Sexual abuse also includes the aiding, abetting, counseling, hiring, or procuring of a child to perform or participate in any photograph, motion picture, exhibition, show, representation, or other presentation which, in whole or in part, depicts a sexual conduct, sexual excitement or sadomasochistic abuse involving a child.