Effects of Neglect

It is the pervasiveness of neglect that causes a great impact on child development.-- Dee Wilson

Some people think neglect is not as damaging to a child as physical or sexual abuse. But that is not necessarily true. Chronic neglect can strongly impact a child's health and development.

According to research, neglect is the type of child maltreatment most likely to re-occur in a family even after child protective services intervention. Research also finds that the more chronic or recurring neglect is in a family, the more likely that children in that family have been physically abused or sexually abused as well. Neglected children are more likely to show up in the juvenile justice system during adolescent years and are less likely than physically abused or sexually abused children to receive services for their developmental delays. Children in the foster care system because of neglect tend to be younger than other maltreated children in out-of-home care.(See Dee Wilson.)

Below is a list of effects that can are often found in children who have been neglected. As you read through the list, think about how many have you seen in the children you have cared for throughout the years.

 

Impact of Neglect on Children

 

General Effects of Neglect in Young Children

• Subdued crying, whimpering, or not crying when hungry, wet or needy
• Unattended diaper rashes or skin abrasions
• Dirty or unkempt
• Flat head or bald spot from laying in crib for long periods
• Poor dental development, decayed teeth or ear infections from propped bottles
• Inability to be comfortable, inconsolable, crying fussy
• Fearfulness, anxious, clingy
• Speech difficulties and delays
• Headbanging or rocking for stimulation
• Poor eye contact, detachment
• Delays in gross motor (failed attempts at sitting or crawling); in social areas (seeking eye contact, smiling, cooing); and in speech (babbling, responding to a parent’s voice)
• Minimal weight and height gain, failure to thrive
• Cognitive delays due to poor nutrition
• Independent. Does not look to caregiver for comfort or guidance
• Hyperactive behavior, inability to concentrate or complete smalls tasks, impulse control

Effects of Neglect in Older Children

• Indiscriminate attachment
• Difficulties eating and with food (over eating, hoarding food, eating too fast, afraid not to get enough)
• Poor dental and teeth development, undiagnosed eye and hearing problems
• Sleep problems, not used to falling asleep in bed or at regular bedtime
• Independent, not used to turning to a caregiver for comfort, takes care of own injuries, doesn’t tell parent where he is
• May have some basic lack of hygiene skills such as bathing, using the toilet, washing
• Difficulty in generating play or socializing with others