This article explores the many effects that neglect has on a child's development. If a child does not have the necessary attachment and stimulation during the critical early years, he or she will have profound developmental problems throughout his or her life. Perhaps the most important aspects that are affected by neglect are the child's brain and social development. By examining the case of the Romanian orphans, readers will be able to see the harsh consequences. Severe neglect is child abuse that often goes unnoticed and is difficult to correct. By understanding the implications of neglect, we can intervene earlier to prevent serious cases from becoming irrevocable.Keywords: neglect, attachment, developmentIntroductionNeglect affects every aspect of a child's life. From the inability to form secure attachments to difficulties in developing cognitive skills. Neglect is defined as mistreatment in which the caregiver fails to provide adequate care. Neglect can take the form of physical, educational, emotional, and medical neglect. The first years of a child's life are a critical period in which he or she must receive the love and stimulation necessary to develop normally. If these needs are not met the effects can be devastating and long-lasting. Psychological neglect leads to low brain activity in essential areas such as language and emotional perception. One of the most harmful possible consequences is that children may develop reactive attachment disorder (RAD). RAD is characterized by persistent lack of social responsiveness and the inability to form selective attachments (Pignotti, 2011, p.33). Once a child has experienced years of cruel abandonment, it is a nearly impossible task ... middle of paper ... mental disorder: a theoretical model that goes beyond attachment. European Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 15(6), 336-342. Ball, B, Ünalacak, M, & Ünlüoğlu, I. (2011). Child maltreatment: abuse and abandonment. Dicle Medical Journal, 38(1), 121-127. Pignotti, M. (2011). Reactive attachment disorder and international adoption. The Scientific Review of Mental Health Practice, 8(1), 30-49.Vanderwert, R., Marshall, P., Nelson III, C., Zeanah, C., & Fox, N. (2010). Timing of intervention influences brain electrical activity in children exposed to severe psychosocial neglect. Public Library of Science, 5(7), 1-5. Zeedyk, S., Davies, C., Parry, S., & Caldwell, P. (2009). Promoting social engagement in Romanian children with communication disorders: Newly trained professionals' experiences of intensive interaction. British Journal of Learning Difficulties, 37(3), 186- 196.