If a child is consistently hungry and poorly nourished, this should prompt a caregiver to suspect what?

When a child is consistently hungry and poorly nourished, this should prompt a caregiver to suspect neglect. Neglect in the context of child welfare refers to a failure by a caregiver to provide necessary food, shelter, medical care, or supervision for a child, leading to harm or risk of harm to the child's well-being. Consistent hunger and poor nutrition indicate that the child’s basic needs are not being met, which fits the definition of neglect.

This observation raises serious concerns because proper nutrition is vital for a child's physical and emotional development. If a child is not receiving adequate food, it can lead to numerous health issues and developmental delays. Caregivers must be vigilant in recognizing these signs, as they indicate potential neglect that must be addressed promptly to ensure the child's safety and well-being.