### Question
Can you define what abuse means?


### Answer
**Abuse** is defined as the following in *42 U.S.C. § 3002*:

> 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. § 3002*
  - Heading: **CHAPTER 35-PROGRAMS FOR OLDER AMERICANS > SUBCHAPTER I-DECLARATION OF OBJECTIVES AND DEFINITIONS**

