Matter of S.T.G.

ALMA WILSON, Justice:

The resolution of this appeal depends upon the construction of one word in 10 O.S.Supp.1990, § 1130(A)(5)(a). At issue is the definition of the term “abuse” in a statute permitting the immediate termination of parental rights where the child involved has been adjudicated deprived.

S.T.G. came to the attention of child welfare authorities on January 7, 1990, after the Department of Human Services received a referral alleging that he was malnourished. The next day DHS intake workers visited the mother’s home, a motel, where they observed and substantiated the child’s poor…