Neglect is best illustrated by which scenario?

• A. Not providing basic needs such as food and shelter
• B. Providing regular meals and shelter
• C. Attending medical appointments
• D. Encouraging school attendance

Answer: (A)

Neglect means failing to meet a child’s basic needs for safety, sustenance, and health. Not providing basic needs such as food and shelter shows neglect, because the child is left without essential resources required to stay healthy and safe. The other scenarios reflect care and protection: providing regular meals and shelter indicates those basic needs are being met; attending medical appointments shows access to healthcare; and encouraging school attendance supports the child’s ongoing development. Neglect can be ongoing and involve more than just food and housing, including supervision and safety, but the absence of basic needs is the clearest illustration.