The differences in statutory definitions of child abuse show the difficulties involved in defining this concept. In addition, most people look beyond the vague statutory language and take into account the parental action, the parental intent, and the child's injury. Moreover, individuals vary in how they view specific incidents of harsh treatment of children. Thus, the available evidence indicates that fathers may be cited for abuse more often when a daughter rather than a son is involved and that female observers may be more likely than males to cite the parent for abuse. Similarly, individuals with lower incomes and members of racial and ethnic minorities may be more likely to be labeled abusive than are others. Other data show that lawyers rated parental reactions as less serious than did other professional groups, and that parents' attitudes influenced judgments of seriousness. 33 references.