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 Pennsylvania, child neglect is addressed under the state's Child Protective Services Law. The law defines child neglect as the failure to provide for a child's basic needs, which includes food, clothing, shelter, medical and dental care, and adequate supervision. The law also considers a child to be neglected if they are placed in an environment that is physically or emotionally harmful. Pennsylvania courts prioritize the health, safety, and well-being of children and take allegations of neglect seriously. If a parent or guardian is found guilty of neglect, they may face significant consequences, including the loss of custody and potential criminal charges. The state may intervene to ensure the child's safety, which can involve the child being placed in foster care or with a relative. Additionally, mandated reporters in Pennsylvania are required to report suspected child neglect to the appropriate authorities, and failure to do so can result in legal penalties.