Neglect is defined by state law and some of the common indicators include: being underweight, poor growth patterns, consistent hunger, poor hygiene, inappropriate clothing, inadequate supervision, unattended physical problems or medical needs, abandonment, begging and/or stealing food, extended stays or rare attendance at school, fatigue, delayed speech development, seek inappropriate affection, expressionless, assume adult responsibilities and/or concerns, abdominal distention, bald patches on the scalp, substance abuse, vocalize in whispers or whines.