How is "dependency" defined in the context of child welfare?

In the context of child welfare, "dependency" refers to a legal status indicating that a child is without proper care and support from their parents or guardians. This status is determined when a child is living in conditions that do not meet their basic needs, which can include inadequate shelter, food, medical care, or emotional support. Dependency cases typically arise when the child's home environment presents significant risks to their safety and well-being, prompting the involvement of child protective services.

This definition encompasses situations where parents may be unable or unwilling to provide for their child's needs, leading to interventions by the state or child welfare agencies. Understanding dependency in this legal sense is crucial for professionals in child welfare, as it dictates the actions that will be taken to secure the child's safety and promote their best interests.

The other options, while they touch on related concerns within child welfare, do not accurately capture the legal definition of dependency. Some may refer to specific conditions or circumstances that can lead to dependency status but do not define the term itself.