Legal Definitions - Parental neglect

Parental neglect is when a parent or legal guardian fails to provide a child with the things they need to live a healthy life. This is often considered a type of child abuse and is also called child neglect. For example, if a parent doesn't give their child enough food, clothes, shelter, medical care, or other necessary things, they could be guilty of parental neglect.

Parental neglect can take many forms, including:

• Physical neglect: not providing a child with basic needs like food, shelter, or medical care
• Emotional neglect: not giving a child the love, attention, and support they need to feel safe and secure
• Educational neglect: not making sure a child goes to school and gets a good education

For example, if a parent doesn't take their child to the doctor when they're sick, or if they don't give them enough food to eat, that could be physical neglect. If a parent doesn't show their child love and affection, or if they ignore their emotional needs, that could be emotional neglect. And if a parent doesn't make sure their child goes to school, that could be educational neglect.

Parental neglect is a serious problem that can have long-lasting effects on a child's health and well-being. In some cases, it can even lead to the termination of parental rights.