NCJ Number
115146
Date Published
1988
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This paper on child neglect discusses the context of neglect, crisis evaluation and intervention, and the symptoms and signs of neglect.
Abstract
Intervention may need to be considered prenatally if neglect of the fetus is evidenced by such activities as severe drug or alcohol abuse, denial of the pregnancy, or failure to seek medical care. In the natal period, neglect may be shown by rejecting behavior toward the newborn. Significant elements of neglect may also exist in parental behaviors generally defined as abuse, i.e., failure to thrive, psychological abuse, and sexual and physical abuse. The objectives of intervention in child neglect are to improve the parents' skill sufficiently so that the children's rights are protected. This means the children must have adequate food, clothing, shelter, and reasonable access to medical care. They must also participate in public education and grow up with healthy bodies and spirits. The family may need a full-time 'parent figure' in the home. Homemakers may be assigned to be in the home several half days per week to teach the family to organize housework, care for the home and children, keep appointments, and help them deal with various problems. Parenting classes may be useful, and drug and alcohol rehabilitation should be initiated when the need is indicated. 8 references.