Child Neglect is a phenomenon that is found in the modern societies. Usually, it is mistaken with child abuse and for this reason, not many studies have been taken place. However, there are many risk factors that can been seen, and also there are many protective factors that can be used, in order to reduce child neglect rates. Scientists are aware of the forms (emotional/physicalutritional/educational) of child neglect and their consequences. Now days, medical and social services staff concentrates on prevention strategies. Introduction Child maltreatment is defined as all forms of physical and/or emotional ill-treatment, sexual abuse, neglect or negligent treatment or commercial or other exploitation, resulting in actual or potential harm to the child’s health, survival, development or dignity; in the context of a relationship of responsibility, trust or power.There are four types of recognized child maltreatment: Physical abuse; Sexual abuse; Emotional and psychological abuse; Neglect; Exposure to family violence. 1 Neglect Neglect is the persistent failure to meet the child’s basic physical and/or psychological needs, likely to result in the serious impairment of the child’s health or development. It may involve a parent or carer failing to provide adequate food, shelter and clothing, failing to protect from physical harm or danger or the failure to ensure access to appropriate medical care or treatment. It may also include neglect of, or unresponsiveness to, a child’s basic emotional needs. 2, 3. The victims’ age, the setting in which the neglect occurs and the relationship between victim and perpetrator emphasize the complexity of this social, human rights, legal and social issue. Susceptibility And Risk Factors Child neglect must be approached as a result of an interaction between several risk factors. These factors are contributory and not direct causes of child maltreatment. Fig.1
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