### Question
What is the definition of mental injury?


### Answer
The definition of **mental injury** is as follows in *18 U.S.C. § 3509*:

> harm to a child's psychological or intellectual functioning which may be exhibited by severe anxiety, depression, withdrawal or outward aggressive behavior, or a combination of those behaviors, which may be demonstrated by a change in behavior, emotional response, or cognition

#### Citation:
  - *18 U.S.C. § 3509*
  - Heading: **PART II-CRIMINAL PROCEDURE > CHAPTER 223-WITNESSES AND EVIDENCE**

