Child maltreatment includes all of the following, except:

• A. Sexual abuse
• B. Physical abuse
• C. Consistent positive reinforcement
• D. Emotional neglect

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definition of child maltreatment. Child maltreatment refers to any act or series of acts by a parent or caregiver that results in harm, potential harm, or threat of harm to a child. It typically includes abuse and neglect.
2. Step 2: Identify the common categories of child maltreatment. These usually include physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, and neglect (which can be physical or emotional).
3. Step 3: Review each option given in the problem: Sexual abuse, Physical abuse, Consistent positive reinforcement, and Emotional neglect. Determine which of these fit the definition of maltreatment.
4. Step 4: Recognize that 'Consistent positive reinforcement' is a supportive and beneficial parenting practice, not a form of maltreatment. The other options are forms of abuse or neglect.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is the option that does not represent maltreatment, which is 'Consistent positive reinforcement.'