Child neglect is the failure of a parent or other person with responsibility for the child to provide the food, clothing, shelter, medical care, education, and supervision necessary for the child's health, safety, and well-being. Placing the child in physically or emotionally harmful situations is also child neglect. Courts take child neglect seriously, and a parent or other person with custody of the child who is guilty of child neglect may lose custody of the child, and may face criminal charges.

In Mississippi, child neglect is addressed under the Mississippi Code Section 43-21-105(m), which defines 'neglected child' as a child whose parent, guardian, or custodian fails to provide proper care, supervision, education as required by law, or medical, dental, or mental health care, or who is otherwise maltreated. The law takes into account the necessities such as food, clothing, shelter, and safety, and considers the failure to provide these as neglect. The Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services (MDCPS) is the agency responsible for investigating reports of child neglect. If neglect is substantiated, the parent or guardian may face a range of consequences, from being required to participate in family support services to losing custody of the child. Additionally, under Mississippi law, child neglect can lead to criminal charges, and those found guilty may face penalties including fines and imprisonment. The courts prioritize the health, safety, and well-being of the child, and any custody decisions will reflect what is in the best interest of the child.