how would you define "abuse"

[mezzBreath]

would spanking fit into that category?

does it have to be intended harm?

[kimberly569]

From Wikipedia
Abuse is the improper usage or treatment for a bad purpose, often to unfairly (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Distributive_justice) or improperly gain benefit. Abuse can come in many forms, such as: physical or verbal maltreatment, injury, sexual assault (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sexual_assault), violation, rape (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rape), unjust practices; wrongful practice or custom; offense; crime (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crime), or otherwise verbal aggression (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aggression)

IMHO, yes because inflicting pain is the intention.