In 2008, 772,000 children in the United States were victims of maltreatment, according to the Administration for Children and Families. Of these 772,000 children, 9 percent experienced forms of maltreatment categorized as "other." This category includes maltreatment through abandonment. Child abandonment has serious consequences for the abandoned child and society as a whole.
Definition
The Oregon Department of Human Services defines child abandonment as occurring when a parent shows intent to relinquish permanent rights and claims to a child. Leaving a child in a situation where he experiences serious harm may also qualify as child abandonment, according to the Child Welfare Information Gateway. Abandonment is generally considered a form of physical neglect, and 17 states and the District of Columbia have included child abandonment in state definitions of abuse and neglect.
Causes
The emotional stability of the parent most accurately predicts child neglect. Parents who abandon children suffer from feelings of depression, futility and lack of initiative, according to Prevent Child Abuse America. Other risk factors for neglect and abandonment include a low level of education, poor socioeconomic status, unemployment, substance abuse and social isolation.
Effects
Children who suffer from child abuse and neglect experience physical consequences such as impaired growth and injuries. Psychologically, abandoned or neglected children have poor social skills, low academic performance and lack of initiative. Older children face an increased likelihood of early sexual behavior, substance abuse and delinquency. Children who suffer from abuse or neglect also have a higher likelihood of abusing or neglecting their own children later in life, according to Prevent Child Abuse America.
Safe Haven Laws
Forty-seven states have enacted "safe haven" laws, which allow legal abandonment of infants. These safe haven laws allow parents to abandon a child by leaving him with designated caregivers without facing legal consequences. The exact legislation varies from state to state regarding whether or not parents must identify themselves or may remain anonymous, whether or not the parent may reclaim an infant and the age of the child at which safe haven no longer remains an option.
Legal Consequences
Parents who abandon children without adhering to safe haven laws may face legal consequences. According to U.S. Legal, parents may face charges of murder, manslaughter or aggravated abuse. However, laws regarding the criminality and punishment of child abandonment vary from state to state.
References
- Administration for Children and Families: Child Maltreatment 2008
- Oregon Department of Human Services: What is Child Abuse and Neglect?
- Child Welfare Information Gateway: Definitions of Child Abuse and Neglect
- Prevent Child Abuse America: Preventing Child Neglect
- Child Welfare Information Gateway: Infant Safe Haven Laws
Member Comments