Alaska Child in Need of Aid (CHINA) proceedings are legal proceedings initiated by the state to protect children from abuse, neglect, abandonment, or other circumstances that jeopardize their health or welfare. These proceedings are usually initiated by the Department of Health and Social Services (DSS), but may also be initiated by a guardian or custodian, a police officer, or a private citizen. There are four types of Alaska CHINA proceedings: Dependency, Neglect, Abuse, and Termination of Parental Rights. Dependency proceedings are used when a child is alleged to be dependent on his or her parent or guardian and in need of protection or services. Neglect proceedings are used when a child is alleged to be suffering from neglect or inadequate care. Abuse proceedings are used when a child is alleged to have been physically, sexually, or emotionally abused. Finally, Termination of Parental Rights are used when a parent or guardian is unable or unwilling to adequately care for a child and relinquishes his or her parental rights.