Final answer:
Physical abuse encompasses actions such as hitting, pushing, or using force that can cause harm. Bullying is also a form of aggressive behaviour that can be physical, verbal, or psychological. Various forms of abuse, all with negative impacts, have been identified and are important to recognize and prevent.
Step-by-step explanation:
Types of Abusive Behavior
Physical abuse is a form of maltreatment that can manifest in various ways. Actions such as hitting, pushing, slapping, shaking, using force, and roughly handling a person are all considered forms of physical abuse. When any of these behaviours result in injury or harm, abuse is present, regardless of the original intent. According to the Child Welfare Information Gateway, abuse is recognized even if the person causing harm did not intend to hurt the child.
Aggression can also appear in social interactions like bullying, which often includes physical or verbal acts but can also be psychological.
The awareness around abuse has broadened, and multiple forms have been identified beyond physical harm, including emotional, psychological, economic, and social abuses. Each form of abuse causes distinct and significant damage to the victim, highlighting the need to address and prevent any abusive behaviours.