left at home alone -homework help--PLEASE?

[Apple23]

Darlene is 5 years old and has been left at home alone while her mother worked during the day for the past six months. Neighbors in the apartment building look in on Darlene during the day. Recently an investigator from Children’s Protective Service paid Darlene’s mother a visit.

Is this situation one in which Darlene’s mother could be sanctioned for child abuse and neglect? What factors does the investigator need to take into account when examining this case?

[Juli]

1) Darlene is alone without Adult supervision 98% of the time x amount of days = neglect 2) Neighbors check in on Darlene = neglect and emotional abuse caused neglect by a Parent 3) Child rights violations = several violations of not have a safe and secure home situation. 4) Can Darlene prepare food for herself? Bath herself? Know coherently the right from wrong or will she be punished for her innocence that is being taken from her by her "parent" not parenting? For this scenario why didn't the neighbors take her in when her mother was absent or contact Human Services sooner than they did?

[Kim T]

Factors to be considered are:

Is the child in danger?
Is the child being fed?
Is the child kept warm or cool, depending on the weather and what is needed?

Food, shelter -- those are the two most important factors -- but then safety should be added as well. Is the child in danger of someone hurting her or abusing her?

Yes, Darlene's mother can be cited for abuse and neglect. A 5-year-old is still a very young child!