IntroductionAbuse comes in many different forms. For example, there is sexual abuse, domestic violence, bullying and hazing which are all types of abuse. Animal abuse is another major societal problem that is often overlooked. Abuse is defined as cruel and violent treatment of a person or animal. For many years, these abuses have been denounced all over the world. These abusive acts are very damaging for the victims. They live in fear and their sense of security is diminished. This also includes animals. This makes them scared and very insecure. All types of abuse can destroy families and even lead to death in some cases. It destroys families, relationships and friendships. Trust then becomes a major issue. Extent of knowledge in this area Abuse is often one of the most difficult crimes to detect in today's society, but the laws have changed, making it a little easier the denunciation of offenders. When abuse occurs, the victim is usually very afraid to say or do anything thinking about the consequences. In a violent situation, the victim is generally threatened by the aggressor and made to fear him. Even if there is domestic violence in the home, that does not necessarily mean there is child abuse. Although the violence is not physical towards the child, it can have harmful consequences on their mental state. The child may be very afraid because he no longer feels safe, having witnessed acts of violence between his parents. In cases of domestic violence, the victim can go to court and obtain a court injunction to protect the spouses from domestic violence (Scheb & Scheb II, 2014, p.188). Courts issue protection orders to victims so that offenders can be prosecuted if the order is not followed. Despite having this right, many victims do not...... middle of newspaper ......news/2010/11/24/hazingButler P. (2014). Children of victims of domestic violence are increasingly being looked after: The Guardian. Retrieved May 7, 2014, from www.theguardian.com/society/2014/jan/15/children-domestic-violence-parents-care Del Carmen, Roland V. (2014). Criminal procedure: practice of law (9th ed.). Cengage Learning Retrieved May 6, 2014. PrintGrovert, A. (2008). Domestic violence against women: a literature review (Master's thesis, Pacific University). Accessed May 8, 2014 at: http://commons.pacificu.edu/spp/92Scheb, J. Scheb II, J. (2014). Criminal Law and Procedure, California: Wadsworth Cengage Learning. Retrieved May 6, 2014. PrintSmith, M & Segal, J. Ph.D. (2014). Domestic violence and abuse: signs of abuse and abusive relationships. Retrieved May 8, 2014 from www.helpguide.org/mental/domestic_violence_abuse_types_signs_causes_effects.htm