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NEGLECTED INFANTS IN FAMILY COURT
Author(s) -
Wotherspoon Evelyn,
Vellet Sonya,
Pirie June,
O'NeillLaberge Marlene,
CookStanhope Hon. Lynn,
Wilson Dee
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
family court review
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.171
H-Index - 4
eISSN - 1744-1617
pISSN - 1531-2445
DOI - 10.1111/j.1744-1617.2010.01325.x
Subject(s) - neglect , intervention (counseling) , child neglect , psychology , mental health , best interests , developmental psychology , psychiatry , child abuse , medicine , political science , law , suicide prevention , poison control , medical emergency
This paper applies the science of early childhood development to the question of neglect in infancy to offer best practice guidance to family law and child protection professionals charged with acting in their best interest. The paper discusses the challenges of presenting cases of infant neglect, particularly emotional neglect, to the court. Current science on the implications of neglect for brain development, and long term mental health are discussed. Recommendations for assessment, intervention and questions that should be addressed in court deliberations are outlined.