Dereliction is a word for neglecting responsibilities. Failing to care for your family or do your job are examples of dereliction. Someone can be fired for dereliction of duty, meaning they have failed to do their job.
This tells me that Ralph has a lot of weight on his back. Everyone depends on him which makes him stressed and not want to deal with anything. He doesn't want to be the leader. This moment foreshadow's that something is going to come up and Ralph needs to take the leader position.
Best of luck,

Fun dance. Its two synonyms