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

Content: It is not clear, however, whether maltreating parents actually experience more life stress or, rather, perceive more events and life experiences as being stressful. In addition, specific stressful situations (e.g., losing a job, physical illness, marital problems, or the death of a family member) may exacerbate certain characteristics of the family members affected, such as hostility, anxiety, or depression, and that may aggravate the level of family conflict and maltreatment. 3. Child Factors
Factors such as a child's age and physical, mental, emotional, or social development may increase the child's vulnerability to maltreatment. Birth to age 3
The rate of documented maltreatment is highest for children between birth and 3 years of age. It declines as age increases. Infants and young children, due to their small physical size, early developmental status, and need for constant care, can be particularly vulnerable to certain forms of maltreatment, such as Shaken Baby Syndrome and physical neglect. Disabilities
Children with physical, cognitive, and emotional disabilities are 1.7 times more likely to be maltreated than children without disabilities. Children who are perceived by their parents as "different" or those with special needs, chronic illnesses, or difficult temperaments may be at greater risk of maltreatment. The demands of caring for these children may overwhelm their parents.