Child Abuse: Signs of Neglect Specific signs of neglect include:
- Hunger, inadequate growth or low weight from poor nutrition,
or unmanaged obesity. - Reference Developmental delays Opens New
Window. - Lack of attention to personal cleanliness. The child
may be very dirty, smelly, or unkempt. - Inappropriate or lack
of clothing for the season. - Delay or failure to get needed
health care. - Not following health care recommendations. -
Pattern of tardiness or missing school. Signs of a poor home
environment that may indicate neglect include: - Lack of
shelter, heat, water, bedding, or clothing. - Insufficient
sleeping arrangements. - Unsanitary conditions and housekeeping
problems. - Structural and fire hazards. Behavior patterns that
may indicate neglect include: - Reference Substance abuse Opens
New Window. A child who is poorly supervised by parents may have
access to drugs or alcohol and develop related behavioral
problems. - Poor social skills. Neglected children may not have
appropriate role models to l