Which age range defines a child in need of services?

The classification of a "child in need of services" typically pertains to minors who are encountering issues that require intervention from social services or the legal system, often due to issues such as behavioral problems, neglect, or other circumstances that impact their well-being and development.

In Massachusetts, the definition of a child in need of services generally includes individuals from ages 6 to 17. This age range is established by legal statutes that outline the responsibilities of the state to protect minors and address their specific needs. Expanding services and protections to those aged 6 to 17 acknowledges the critical developmental stages these children are in, allowing for necessary support during their formative years.

The incorrect choices either fall outside this defined age range or misrepresent the appropriate developmental stage for such classification. For instance, ages 0 to 5 focus too heavily on early childhood without addressing the broader needs of older minors, while ages 18 to 21 pertain to young adults who are typically beyond the jurisdiction of services designed specifically for minors. The range of ages 5 to 10 is overly narrow and does not encompass the full spectrum of vulnerable youth who may require intervention. Thus, the age range of 6 to 17 captures the intended demographic that the legal system aims to