Problem
The next few questions are based on the scenario below and it will be repeated for each of the different questions.
You are working with the Smith family which consists of Mrs. Smith, age 32, Mr. Smith, age 35, their six year old daughter, Emily and 2 year old Samantha. Emily has complained to her teacher of chronic pain with her teeth. Emily has seen the school nurse. The school nurse reports that Emily appears to have numerous cavities at various stages. Emily is having a hard time concentrating in school and does not complete her classroom assignments. Her grades have dropped the last nine weeks. The teacher has sent numerous notes home and placed several calls to Emily's parents. The parents have told the teacher they do not have the money to pay for a dentist at this time, do not have dental insurance and do not qualify for free health insurance. When you go to meet with the family, you find that both Emily and Samantha are playing outside by themselves and Samantha is close to the road in a high traffic area. After talking with the family they tell you they do not have a family ritual for Emily to brush her teeth. They also stated the children were in the yard and therefore did not seem concerned that the children were outside by themselves. You also notice cans and bottles of beer, as well as several bottles of medication within reach of the children.
i. What types of neglect is the family experiencing?
ii. What physical and behavioral indicators of child neglect are present?
iii. What are the family dynamics and characteristics of the family that indicate neglect? Explain.
iv. Is this an act of commission or omission? Provide reasons for your selection.