Title: AbuseWatch.NET
Headings: Factors that Contribute to Child Abuse and Neglect

Content: AbuseWatch. NET

















Factors that Contribute to Child Abuse and Neglect
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Parent or caregiver factors
Family factors
Child factors
Environmental factors
Risk factors by type of abuse
Research has recognized a number of risk factors or attributes commonly associated with maltreatment. Children in families and environments where these factors exist have a higher probability of experiencing maltreatment. A greater understanding of risk factors can help professionals working with children and families identify maltreatment and high-risk situations so they can intervene appropriately. It must be emphasized, however, that while certain factors often are present among families where maltreatment occurs, this does not mean that the presence of these factors will always result in child abuse and neglect. Factors associated with increased risk of child maltreatment are often grouped according to the following categories: Parent or caregiver factors
Family factors
Child factors
Environmental factors
Risk factors by type of abuse
1. Parent or caregiver factors
Personality Characteristics/Mental Health
No consistent set of characteristics or personality traits has been associated with parents or caregivers who maltreat. However, some characteristics identified in those who are physically abusive or neglectful may include low self-esteem, belief that events are determined by chance or outside forces beyond one's personal control, poor impulse control, depression, anxiety, and antisocial behavior. History of Abuse
While the estimated number varies, child maltreatment literature indicates that some maltreating parents or caregivers were victims of child abuse and neglect themselves.