What may be indicated by the frequent missed appointments and poor hygiene of a child named Dottie?

Frequent missed appointments and poor hygiene in a child can indicate potential neglect. Neglect refers to the failure of a caregiver to provide necessary care, supervision, or support to a child, which can manifest in various ways, including lack of adequate medical care or failure to ensure proper personal hygiene. A child who frequently misses medical appointments may not be receiving the necessary health evaluations or treatments, indicating that their basic needs are not being met. Similarly, poor hygiene can be a sign that the child is not receiving adequate supervision or assistance in maintaining personal care, which is essential for their well-being. These signs together raise concerns about the child’s environment and the adequacy of their caregiving, making potential neglect the most fitting interpretation of Dottie’s situation.