Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Academy (NVCJA) Practice Exam

Which of the following indicates potential neglect in a child's living situation?

1. Consistent supervision by parents

2. Inadequate or no supervision

3. Frequent family outings

4. Participation in community programs

The correct answer is: Inadequate or no supervision

The indication of potential neglect in a child's living situation is represented by inadequate or no supervision. Neglect can manifest in various forms, often demonstrated by a lack of appropriate care, attention, or supervision that a child requires for healthy development and safety. When children are not adequately supervised, they are at risk of physical, emotional, and developmental harm. This can lead to unsafe environments where children may engage in risk-taking behaviors or be susceptible to abuse. Effective parenting includes providing consistent and appropriate supervision, which ensures that children are safe and their needs are met. In contrast, consistent supervision by parents, frequent family outings, and participation in community programs highlight active engagement and support from caregivers, which are crucial for a child's well-being. These factors reflect a nurturing environment, opposing the concept of neglect. Therefore, the presence of inadequate or no supervision serves as a clear indicator that there may be neglect in a child's living situation.