Neglect

Etymology

Latin neglectus, past participle of neglegere, neclegere, from nec- not (akin to ne- not) + legere to gather

• Date: 1529

Definitions

• 1 : to give little attention or respect to : disregard
• 2 : to leave undone or unattended to especially through carelessness

Description

Neglect is a passive form of abuse in which the perpetrator is responsible to provide care for a victim who is unable to care for oneself, but fails to provide adequate care to meet the victim's needs, thereby resulting in the victim's demise.

Neglect may include failing to provide sufficient supervision, nourishment, medical care or other needs for which the victim is helpless to provide for him/her/itself. The victim may be a child, physically or mentally disabled adult, animal, plant, or inanimate object.