Section 141Sec./Art. 141

Definition of Terms. - As used in this Chapter:

1. A dependent child is one who is without a parent, guardian or custodian; or one whose parents, guardian or other custodian for good cause desires to be relieved of his care and custody; and is dependent upon the public for support.

2. An abandoned child is one who has no proper parental care or guardianship, or whose parents or guardians have deserted him for a period of at least six continuous months.

3. A neglected child is one whose basic needs have been deliberately unattended or inadequately attended. Neglect may occur in two ways:

(a) There is a physical neglect when the child is malnourished, ill clad and without proper shelter.

(b) A child is unattended when left by himself without provisions for his needs and/or without proper supervision.

(c) Emotional neglect exists: when children are maltreated, raped or seduced; when children are exploited, overworked or made to work under conditions not conducive to good health; or are made to beg in the streets or public places, or when children are in moral danger, or exposed to gambling, prostitution and other vices.

4. Commitment or surrender of a child is the legal act of entrusting a child to the care of the Department of Social Welfare or any duly licensed child placement agency or individual.

Commitment may be done in the following manner:

(a) Involuntary commitment, in case of a dependent child, or through the termination of parental or guardianship rights by reason of abandonment, substantial and continuous or repeated neglect and/or parental incompetence to discharge parental responsibilities, and in the manner, form and procedure hereinafter prescribed.

(b) Voluntary commitment, through the relinquishment of parental or guardianship rights in the manner and form hereinafter prescribed.