ABSTRACT

Legislative and social actions exist worldwide in attempts to end child abuse and neglect; however, when considering child abuse (physical, sexual, and emotional), the foundation of intent is critical; this is not the case with child neglect. In fact, neglect may occur by intent, by accident, or through ignorance. However, it is no less an issue in discussions of child maltreatment. In general, neglect is defined as a failure to provide attention to certain areas or circumstances.