The Medical Needs of the Child and Religious Doctrines (North America)

Abstract

Child abuse or child neglect is manifested in a number of ways. The syndrome runs the gamut from patent physical injuries to invidious psychological impairment. One area of concern is the child in need of medical attention who is denied such care by his parents on the basis of a religious belief. Some would argue that this is in fact child abuse and neglect while others would contend it is the exercise of parental discretion and religious conviction.