What is one characteristic of a dependent juvenile?

A dependent juvenile is specifically defined as a minor who lacks proper parental care or guardianship. This includes situations where the juvenile does not have responsible caregivers available to meet their basic needs, whether due to neglect, abandonment, or the inability of the caregivers to provide adequate support. This characteristic emphasizes the vulnerability of these juveniles and the need for intervention, often through legal systems or child welfare agencies, to ensure their safety and well-being.

The notion of a juvenile without responsible caregivers aligns with the concept of dependency because it showcases the necessity for these minors to receive protective services. In contrast, options that describe a juvenile who is highly disciplined, frequently involved in school activities, or has stable guardianship reflect healthy family dynamics and support structures, which do not fit the definition of being dependent. Thus, being without responsible caregivers is the defining characteristic that identifies a juvenile as dependent.