Child Neglect Research Papers

This analysis has provided us with a grounding in understanding the phenomena of child neglect. We have explored the problems in defining neglect, the long and short-term effects of child neglect have been noted, as have the home environments that increase the risk of harm. It can be agreed that the overriding problem that seems to stem from all these aspects is, firstly, the issue of spotting child neglect, secondly, the recording and reporting signs of neglect and thirdly, and most importantly, noticing them early in order to act swiftly, and give the family the support they require, in order to prevent issues escalating and long-term problems for the child increasing in severity. It is therefore of importance to consider the laws and legislation that govern the action we should take to tackle these issues as social work professionals, as Brammer (2007) states “the law is the beginning …show more content…
‘significant harm’ however, could be said to cause confusion in terms of the definition of child neglect, here emphasis may be overly placed in the commission of physical abuse, therefore, acts of omission could be brushed over as a non-significant risk of harm (Speight & Wynnes 2000). Section 17 of the act does, however, define a child in need and places them into categories. The following sections it could be said cover those children in the early stages of neglect. (a) He/she is unlikely to achieve or maintain, or have the opportunity of achieving or maintaining, a reasonable standard of health or development without the provision for him/her of services by a local authority (b) His/her health or development is likely to be significantly impaired, or further impaired, without the provision for him/her of such services (HM Government 1989). The categories of children in need could also be said to