### Question
How is the "abuse" defined?


### Answer
The term **abuse** is defined in *42 U.S.C. § 1397j* as follows -

> the knowing infliction of physical or psychological harm or the knowing deprivation of goods or services that are necessary to meet essential needs or to avoid physical or psychological harm

#### Citation:
  - *42 U.S.C. § 1397j*
  - Heading: **CHAPTER 7-SOCIAL SECURITY > SUBCHAPTER XX-BLOCK GRANTS TO STATES FOR SOCIAL SERVICES AND ELDER JUSTICE > Division B-Elder Justice**

