Child Welfare License (CWEL) Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Study Resource

Rejection as a form of emotional maltreatment is characterized by a parent's consistent failure to acknowledge a child's worth. This behavior can manifest as a lack of affectionate interactions, neglectful responses to a child's emotional needs, or outright dismissive attitudes toward the child's feelings and achievements. Children who experience this form of maltreatment may internalize these negative messages, leading to low self-esteem, feelings of worthlessness, and difficulties in forming healthy relationships later in life.

In contrast, the other options describe positive parenting behaviors. Encouraging social relationships and verbally supporting a child's needs are examples of nurturing actions that promote a child's emotional and social well-being. Providing emotional stability and care represents an essential aspect of effective parenting, contributing to a child's sense of safety and security. However, rejection involves a detrimental lack of support and recognition that significantly impacts a child's emotional health.