What is considered harm in relation to child welfare?

Harm in relation to child welfare encompasses a broad spectrum of issues that can affect a child's well-being and development. This concept includes not only physical injuries but also emotional and psychological harm resulting from neglect or abuse. A combination of inflicted injuries or neglect captures the complexity of situations in child welfare, where a child may experience multiple forms of harm.

For instance, a child might suffer from physical abuse alongside emotional neglect, making it critical to recognize that harm isn't limited to one specific type of injury or mistreatment. The definition of harm is inclusive, acknowledging that different forms of maltreatment can occur simultaneously and can have interrelated consequences on a child’s overall health and development. This comprehensive view aligns closely with the principles of child welfare and the goals of agencies like the Florida Department of Children and Families, which aim to protect children from varying types of harm.