Child Neglect (Glossary)

Child Neglect: Child neglect is defined as any recent act, or failure to act, that results in the death of a child, or in an endangerment of a child, or the creation of an imminent risk of the death or serious physical or emotional harm, or sexual abuse of a child. The term "neglect" is defined in both Federal and State legislation, and can vary to some degree from state to state. The Federal Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA) provides a definitional foundation for States by identifying a minimum set of acts or behaviors that characterize neglect or maltreatment of a child.