Understanding child neglect
Neglect is when the person responsible for taking care of you isn’t giving you everything you need to grow happy and healthy.
Content Warning: this article contains violence and trauma related content that may be triggering or distressing.
What is neglect?
It’s when we don’t have our basic needs met by the person responsible for taking care of us. It could be our parent, carer or grandparent.
- Some parents or carers have trouble giving their kids the basics they need to be safe and grow up happy and healthy.
- It can happen when one or both caregivers find parenting hard, eg. because of addiction, mental illness, poverty or homelessness.
- Deciding what neglect is and isn’t can be hard. It’s defined by things such as the laws in the country where you live, culture and society.
Physical neglect
Not enough food, clothing or shelter
Medical neglect
Not getting help for injuries or sickness
Emotional neglect
Not having love and care from a parent or carer
Educational neglect
Often absent from school or not going at all
Abandonment
Being left by parent or carer for very long periods
Supervisory neglect
Taking care of yourself beyond what’s expected for your age
What’s the opposite of neglect?
We need to be supported in different areas of our life when growing up. This is usually the job of our parent or caregiver. But it may also include our extended family, school and community.
- Physical – shelter, food, clothing, hygiene, sleep
- Security – a safe place to live, someone to take care of you
- Affection – cuddles, kisses, hugs, warmth
- Responsibility – being included in decisions
- Guidance – teaching life lessons, instilling values
- Independence – exploring the world in a safe way
- Stimulation – praise, play, games, having fun
- Approval – understanding and acceptance
Neglect happens over time. It usually isn't a one-off event.
What are the signs of neglect?
Here are some signs that may mean a young person is being neglected:
- Often hungry and without enough food to eat
- Not enough clothes; worn out or dirty clothes
- Very dirty, unwashed or have body odour
- Untreated injuries, illnesses or infections
- Is frequently absent from school or doesn’t attend at all
- Is left alone for long periods without supervision
- Living in very dirty or unsafe conditions
- May steal or beg for food, clothing or money
- Being ignored or rejected by parent or carer
- Parent or carer is abusing alcohol or drugs
If you are being neglected…
You might feel guilty, sad, scared, or hurt. But just remember that:
- You deserve to be loved and cared for
- It’s NOT your fault
- Kids Helpline is here to help you
There are people you can talk to
Here’s a list of some people you could try talking to. Remember, if at first you don’t get help, keep trying until you find somebody who will help you.
- Older relative or friend
- Kids Helpline - 1800 55 1800
- Teacher or school principal
- 1800 RESPECT - 1800 737 732
- Doctor or nurse
- Youth worker
- School counsellor
Contact us!
Call 1800 55 1800 or start a webchat
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