Final answer:
A child with a parent or caregiver who has active decay may be categorized as at risk, indicating potential neglect and the possibility of child welfare intervention.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a child's parent or caregiver has active decay, this often indicates potential issues with neglect regarding the child's care. As such, the child would likely be placed under a category indicating they are at risk and may require intervention. This is because active decay can suggest that the parent or caregiver is not adequately maintaining their health, which is often mirrored in their capacity to care for their child. In cases where parental neglect is suspected due to issues like active decay, inadequate care, or poverty, child welfare services may intervene. In some situations, this intervention may lead to the child being cared for by another family member, such as a grandparent or other relatives. In 2018, it was reported that approximately three million children lived with guardians who were not their biological or adoptive parents for various reasons, including parental mental health issues, drug use, or incarceration.