Final answer:
The most precise term for what the single mother is doing is child neglect. Child neglect refers to the failure of a parent or caregiver to provide for the basic needs and well-being of a child, and it can have serious consequences for the child's development.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most precise term for what the single mother is doing is child neglect. Child neglect refers to the failure of a parent or caregiver to provide for the basic needs and well-being of a child, such as nutrition, shelter, clothing, and medical care. It is a form of child maltreatment and can have serious consequences for the child's physical, emotional, and cognitive development.
Child neglect can result from various factors, including parental depression, substance abuse, extreme focus on work, cultural values, community standards of care, and poverty. Children raised by neglectful parents often exhibit emotional withdrawal, anxiety, poor academic performance, and an increased risk of substance abuse.
If the parent fails to use available information or assistance from public or private services, child welfare services may intervene to protect the child's well-being.