Which of the following is a common indicator of neglect?

• A. Lack of supervision
• B. Bruises in different stages
• C. Unexplained bruises
• D. Pain in genitals

Answer: (A)

Not providing adequate supervision signals neglect because it shows a caregiver failing to meet a child’s basic safety and care needs. When a child is left unsupervised or consistently under inadequate supervision for their age, they’re placed at risk, and this ongoing pattern reflects neglect rather than a single incident of harm.

Other signs point more toward different forms of maltreatment. Bruises in various stages imply injuries over time, which is more characteristic of physical abuse, while unexplained bruises raise concerns about potential harm as well. Pain in the genitals suggests possible sexual abuse. So, while those signs are serious, they indicate abuse-related harm rather than neglect, which centers on supervision and safety. If you notice a child regularly left unattended or in unsafe conditions, that pattern warrants reporting and further assessment.