Which describes lack of attention (failure to thrive)?

• A. The parents deny satisfying relationships and avoid most interactions, leading to the infant/child’s weight falling below the fifth percentile
• B. The parents consistently provide emotional care and interaction
• C. The child attends school regularly
• D. The child receives regular social support

Answer: (A)

Lack of attention and neglect can cause failure to thrive because a child’s growth depends on consistent care, feeding, and emotional engagement. When caregivers deny satisfying relationships and withdraw from interactions, the child may not receive adequate nourishment and stimulation, leading to poor weight gain and a weight percentile well below typical expectations. This describes growth faltering tied to insufficient care and nutrition. In contrast, consistent emotional care, regular school attendance, and regular social support are protective factors that promote healthy growth and development, not neglect or failure to thrive.