What accounts for 75% of all reports to the Hotline?

Neglect accounts for 75% of all reports to the Hotline, which highlights a critical aspect of child welfare and protection services. In the context of child protective services, neglect refers to the failure of caregivers to meet a child's basic needs, which can include inadequate supervision, failure to provide food or shelter, or a lack of essential medical care. This high percentage indicates that neglect is more commonly reported than other forms of maltreatment, such as abuse or misconduct.

Understanding neglect is vital for professionals in child welfare as it often requires intervention to ensure the safety and well-being of the child. Neglect can have severe long-term effects on a child's physical, emotional, and psychological development, making it crucial for reports to be taken seriously and investigated promptly. The prevalence of neglect in hotline reports reflects broader social issues, including poverty, mental health challenges among caregivers, and access to resources, all of which can contribute to situations where children may not receive the care they need.