7 Signs of Child Neglect
Child neglect occurs when a caregiver or parent does not provide for the health, safety and other well-being of a child. Areas in which neglect may occur include food, clothing, shelter, medical care, education, emotional needs and protection from harm. While there are many general signs that a child may be experiencing neglect, explicit signs are often noticeable when looking closely at the behavior of the child, the behavior of the parent and at their interactions with one another.
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Signs in Children
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Deficits in diet, clothing and hygiene and necessary medical care are some of the red flags that become obvious in observing a neglected child. The child may be inadequately clothed. He may be frequently dirty or have body odor, says the Child Welfare Information Gateway. He may frequently beg for food or money to buy food. The child may be missing needed glasses, dental care or vaccinations.
Signs in Parents
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One frequent red flag in parents or caregivers who are neglectful is that they will either not admit to any problems that the child is having at school or at home, or they will shift the blame for any difficulties onto the child.. Another frequent warning sign is an apparent lack of concern about the child's welfare, which may take the form of his absence from the home or the child's absence from school. Finally, they may experience a sort of role reversal, expecting the child to provide attention, emotional support or other types of care.
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Parent/Child Interactions
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The parent/child connection will appear to be obviously damaged or nonexistent. The Child Welfare Information Gateway reports that any interactions between the neglected child and his parents will be extremely limited, with little physical or eye contact, and one or both parties will report a negative or hostile relationship
Reporting Neglect
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Anyone can report suspected child neglect. People working in some professions, such as social work, law enforcement, child care, mental health, medicine and teaching, are even bound by law to report cases in which neglect or some form of abuse may be taking place. These individuals are known as mandatory reporters. Private citizens wishing to make a report should call their local police department or child protective services agency.
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References
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