Emotional neglect can be described as:

Emotional neglect occurs when a caregiver fails to meet a child's emotional needs, which include support, attention, and the opportunity for normal social experiences. It encompasses the lack of nurturing, affection, and validation that is essential for a child’s emotional development. This form of neglect can severely impact a child’s mental health, self-esteem, and overall well-being, leading to long-term psychological effects.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of emotional neglect. Providing excess material goods may signify an attempt to compensate for emotional deficiencies but does not address the fundamental need for emotional connection. Merely failing to provide supervision highlights a specific aspect of neglect related to safety rather than emotional support. Neglecting physical health pertains to the physical aspect of child care but is distinct from the emotional realm, which focuses on nurturing the child's psychological and emotional growth.