Which Best Describes the Way Child Maltreatment Is Defined Throughout

Multiple Choice

Which best describes the way child maltreatment is defined throughout the United States?

A) There is one federal overarching definition, and then counties are free to elaborate.
B) Some policies are defined at the federal level, child maltreatment is typically operationalized at the state level, but counties also have discretion.
C) States are given individual discretion over child maltreatment definitions.
D) Counties are given full discretion in "county administered" states.