Child Protection Investigation Specialist (CPIS) Practice Exam

What does the term organic failure to thrive refer to?

1. A child's poor growth due to an underlying medical condition

2. A child's poor growth without any known medical cause

3. A result of physical abuse

4. A psychological disorder affecting growth

The correct answer is: A child's poor growth due to an underlying medical condition

The term "organic failure to thrive" specifically describes a situation where a child's poor growth or inability to maintain an appropriate weight is directly linked to an identifiable underlying medical condition. This could include various health issues, such as metabolic disorders, gastrointestinal problems, or chronic diseases that affect nutrient absorption and overall health. Identifying such medical conditions is crucial in addressing and treating the child's growth challenges effectively. In contrast, the other options refer to different circumstances that do not fall under the definition of organic failure to thrive. For example, poor growth without a known medical cause would be classified as "non-organic failure to thrive." Factors like physical abuse or psychological disorders that may contribute to a child’s growth issues can be significant but do not pertain to the organic nature of the condition as described in the correct answer. This distinction between organic and non-organic causes is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.