Can early indicators of neglecting families be observed: A comparative study of neglecting and non-neglecting families

Abstract This study attempted to establish whether early indicators of neglect were observed in those families whose children were later registered on the Child Protection Register under the category of neglect. The aim of the study was to promote better understanding leading to earlier identification of negligence. A sample of families whose Children's names were registered on the Child Protection Register under the category of neglect were compared with a sample of families whose Children's names were not on the Child Abuse Register. The study showed overwhelmingly that indicators of neglect were present in the neglecting sample and therefore neglect may be assumed to be predictable when these indicators are present.