Which statement best describes child neglect?

• A. A caregiver fails to provide food, nutrition, clothing, shelter, medicine, and medical services essential for the well-being of a child
• B. A caregiver disciplines a child strictly
• C. A caregiver leaves the child unsupervised for a few minutes
• D. A caregiver ensures the child has a safe home

Answer: (C)

Neglect involves failing to meet a child’s safety and basic needs. The most direct indicator here is leaving a child unsupervised for a few minutes. Even short periods without supervision can put a child at risk of harm, accidents, or dangerous situations, especially if the child is young. That focus on safety and supervision is why this statement best describes neglect. The other options describe either disciplinary behavior, a safe home, or unmet basic needs in a way that doesn’t center on immediate supervision, which is the aspect most clearly tied to neglect in many child-protection definitions.