Childhood neglect: The role of the paediatrician

Brooks R Keeshin1, Howard Dubowitz2

  • 1Mayerson Center for Safe and Healthy Children, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinatti, Ohio;

Insights

Child neglect is a serious issue where healthcare providers struggle to identify inadequate care. This article explores neglect

Area of Science:

  • Child maltreatment
  • Pediatric health
  • Social work

Background:

  • Child neglect is a widespread form of maltreatment.
  • Healthcare practitioners face challenges in identifying neglectful caregiving.
  • Accurate identification is crucial for child welfare.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To discuss the epidemiology, risk factors, and outcomes of child neglect.
  • To describe assessment methods using objective markers like harm and potential harm.
  • To outline practical intervention strategies for healthcare professionals.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review on neglect epidemiology, risk factors, and outcomes.
  • Discussion of objective markers for neglect identification (harm, potential harm).
  • Exploration of clinical setting challenges and intervention strategies.

Main Results:

  • Neglect presents significant challenges in healthcare settings.
  • Objective markers can aid in neglect identification.
  • Effective interventions require family engagement, collaboration, and advocacy.

Conclusions:

  • Healthcare professionals need clear guidelines for identifying and addressing child neglect.
  • Interdisciplinary collaboration and proactive family engagement are key to prevention.
  • Advocacy by healthcare professionals is vital for child protection.

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