An estimated 1.2 million children were identified in child protection reports in 1990 as being neglected. Further, research indicates neglect has a serious impact on children's behavior across time and varied situations. Neglected children, if they survive physically, often fail to develop the confidence, concentration, and social skills that will enable them to succeed in school and in relationships. Even the most subtle kinds of emotional neglect have a dramatic effect on children's development, especially during the early years of life. Emotionally neglected children do not expect to get what they need from others and do not even try to solicit care and warmth. Moreover, they do not expect to be effective and successful in tasks and do not try to succeed. Although the effectiveness of intervention with neglecting families has not been studied adequately, limited evidence suggests interventions are successful with no more than 50 percent of families. The most effective family interventions are comprehensive and relatively long-term. Research points to early indicators of parents who are likely to be physically or emotionally neglectful. In particular, neglect is likely to occur among parents who lack an understanding of their children's behavior and the parent-child relationship, experience a great deal of stress, are socially isolated, and have a history of inadequate care themselves. Models of family support and early intervention offer promise as prevention strategies. Methodological considerations in studying the effects of child neglect and directions in the area of child neglect for both research and practice are noted. 105 references