Although there are no data on the actual incidence of child abuse in India, the number of incidents brought to the attention of the authorities indicates it is a significant problem. Physical abuse has included the offering of children to gods, beatings, electric shock, bullet wounds, and burning. Abusive parents tend to believe in strict discipline and view the child's misbehavior as willful disobedience. They are often socially isolated and have emotional problems, feelings of inadequacy, and sensitivity to criticism. Each State has the legal right and responsibility to intervene in child abuse. Since abusive parents do not typically ask for help, persons aware of child abuse -- such as social workers, school teachers, doctors, nurses, and relatives -- should report the abuse to the police. Incidents of child abuse and neglect may be addressed through a legal punitive approach or through the rehabilitation of the abusive parents.