Neglect is one of the most difficult forms of child abuse to address because child protection workers are assessing what is not present or an omission of care by parents or carers. Neglect is frequently found to co-occur with other forms of child abuse. It often coincides with or results from a parent or carer’s substance misuse, mental health issues, intellectual disability or low cognitive functioning, gambling or family and domestic violence. The impact of intergenerational trauma, cultural disconnection and family disruption can also affect a parent’s capacity to care for their child.
The effects of neglect may not be apparent at an early stage, except in the most extreme situation. Neglect can be episodic, reactive, or chronic. It is critical that neglect is not considered a lesser problem than other forms of abuse given the evidence that its consequences can be harmful. It is also important that the presence of chronic neglect does not obscure other forms of abuse. The short and long-term, as well as cumulative effects of neglect can be significant, whether there is intent by the parent or carer to harm the child or not.
Print this page
