Legal Definitions - neglected child

Definition: A child whose parents or legal custodians are unfit to care for him or her because of cruelty, immorality, or incapacity. It can also refer to a child whose parents or legal custodians refuse to provide the necessary care and medical services for the child.

Examples:

• A child whose parents are drug addicts and neglect their basic needs such as food, shelter, and medical care.
• A child whose parents are physically or emotionally abusive and do not provide a safe and nurturing environment.
• A child whose parents refuse to take them to the doctor or provide necessary medical treatment for a serious illness or injury.

These examples illustrate how a neglected child is a child who is not receiving proper care and attention from their parents or legal custodians. Neglect can have serious consequences on a child's physical, emotional, and mental well-being, and it is important to identify and address cases of neglect to ensure the safety and welfare of the child.