What defines a dependent minor?

A dependent minor is defined as a minor who lacks appropriate care due to the absence or inability of their guardians to provide proper support and supervision. This situation often arises when parents or guardians are unable to fulfill their responsibilities, whether due to various factors such as circumstances like illness, incarceration, or even substance abuse issues.

In contrast, living independently or having a legal guardian does not align with the definition of a dependent minor. A minor living independently may not rely on guardianship for support, while a minor with a legal guardian is under someone’s supervision, and their needs should be met by that guardian. Additionally, a dependent minor is not simply one who is under strict parental supervision either, as that implies the presence of a responsible figure actively caring for the minor. The key characteristic of a dependent minor is the lack of adequate parental support, thereby making choice C the most accurate answer.