Seeing others inflict physical abuse on children should prompt immediate action by the observer. People who are physically violent generally demonstrate violence again at higher levels. Early intervention is the best strategy to avoid lifelong consequences. Child neglect in any form when it concerns a child s welfare is generally considered to be criminal behavior. Child neglect will be considered as a possible diagnosis for children that are poorly cared for, not fed properly, improperly clothed, denied basic necessities, denied proper medical care, or treated with indifference to a degree that appears to cause damage or suffering.
Children can develop long-term medical and developmental problems from such neglect.
Failure to continue to get help for a child who is not doing well or who is improperly cared for may be interpreted as another form of neglect. This can result in criminal action or action by child protective services that may result in children being removed from the home and placed in foster care. Emotional neglect is a condition in which children do not get adequate attention from their parents or guardians. With mild forms of emotional neglect, children can develop rebellious behaviors or become alienated from their parents. These behaviors in young children continue as they get older and can transform into other personality or mental disorders that can be difficult, if not impossible to treat.