Does anyone know if a neglected child can show similar signs of autism?

[jlucas341]

I am posting this because of my neighbor-- going to give a little background first. She has 3 children (boy 1 age, 3y7m; boy 2 age 2y9m; boy 3 age 1y10m) and is pregnant again. Neither parent works -- she sits on the computer all day and night and he plays video games all day and night. The children are always locked in their bedrooms or strapped in highchairs (sometimes with ropes around the necks); especially the 1yr & 2yr olds. Child services was there and they never do anything- which some of the other neighbors and I don't understand. They are never spoken to -- therefore can't communicate and don't understand language. Since they are in high chairs they have very little muscle built up in their legs-- the 2 year old. They do take the kids to doctors -- the doctor told the parents that they need to work to teach the 1 & 2 year old how to walk and talk -- specialist were even ordered to go to the home.

Now they have the specialist in the home, the specialist thinks the 2yr old has autism -- he will be having a scan of his brain done in august. Will the doctors be able to see that it is neglect? This child does not communicate, but when he is outside, he doesn't play he has neighbors holding him-- and screams when he goes back inside. Also if the doctors can't tell the difference between autism and neglect -- who is watching out for these children? Child sevices has been there and does nothing -- neighbors and myself have been in the house and seen it firsthand, what could be done -- I know not medical now. I really just need to know if autism and neglect can be distinguished?

thank so much

Jen

[RN1982]

We can't give medical or legal advice per TOS policy.

[JohnnysGirl]

Can neglect lead to autism? Hmm... I've wondered that myself. Wonder if there is any literature out there.

[Spidey's mom, ADN, BSN, RN]

ummmmm . . .if there are ropes around the children's necks then CPS needs to take them away from their parents.

How do you know the parents do this??? If you see this, you should call the police and take the ropes off the children.

Autism is the last of the worries here .. . .

steph

[XB9S, BSN, MSN, EdD, RN, APN]

Wow, the situation you describe is frightening but not really something that is within the scope of anyone at allnurses to answer.

If you have witnessed and are aware of this neglect then you are obliged to report it, other than that the information you seek is beyond what we are able to offer on the site.

[NRSKarenRN, BSN, RN]

Child Protective Services (CPS) needs to have PROOF.

The children are always locked in their bedrooms or strapped in highchairs (sometimes with ropes around the necks); especially the 1yr & 2yr olds

Anyone who sees child strapped in highchair with rope about their neck needs to call the police department and file a complaint so it can be witnessed by them, photo's taken, etc., especially if second time and Children and youth. If you have a cell phone with camera when you visit, I'd take a picture too...

If the neighbors have not put thier concerns IN WRITING to Director of Children and Youth Services or Director of Social Service for the county overseeing CYS department, I suggest you do so today.