Abandoned child

Abandoned child refers to a child who has been left physically, emotionally, or both by their parents or guardians. The abandonment can be intentional or unintentional, and it can occur for various reasons, including poverty, societal pressure, or parental neglect.

Definition

The term "abandoned child" is often used in the context of child abandonment, a form of child neglect where a parent, guardian, or caregiver, either physically or emotionally, deserts a child without any regard for the child's physical health, safety, or welfare, and with the intention of entirely severing the parent-child relationship.

Causes

There are numerous causes of child abandonment. Some parents abandon their children due to poverty, mental illness, lack of parenting skills, or societal pressure. In some cases, children are abandoned due to birth defects or illness, or because they are the product of unwanted pregnancies.

Effects

The effects of being an abandoned child can be severe and long-lasting. These children often suffer from psychological trauma, attachment disorder, and other mental health issues. They may also experience poverty, homelessness, and educational difficulties.

Legal aspects

In many jurisdictions, child abandonment is a criminal offense. In the United States, for example, most states have established safe-haven laws that allow parents to leave newborns in designated locations without fear of prosecution.

Prevention and intervention

Efforts to prevent and intervene in cases of child abandonment include social services, child protective services, and various non-governmental organizations. These entities provide support and resources to at-risk families, offer adoption and foster care services, and work to raise awareness about the issue.

See also

• Orphan
• Foster care
• Child Protective Services
• Safe-haven law