Parent Risk Factors
What is a health condition that can make parenting more difficult?
Physical disability, chronic illness, or mental illness
What birth-related issue can disrupt bonding?
Low birth weight or premature birth
What community issue can increase risk?
High crime rates or unsafe neighborhoods
What is a protective factor related to parent-child relationship?
Secure attachment
What is one thing abusive caregivers have not learned?
To get their own needs met
What financial issue can increase the risk of child abuse?
Unemployment or financial difficulties
What type of temperament mismatch can be a risk factor?
Highly active child with a low-key caregiver
What cultural issue can lead to clashes?
Different attitudes toward gender roles and childrearing
What child trait can be protective?
Good social skills or positive disposition
What do abusive caregivers struggle to separate?
Feelings from actions
What substance-related issue is a parent risk factor?
Substance misuse such as alcohol or drug addiction
What adolescent behavior can increase risk?
Testing boundaries and challenging adults
What belief about family privacy can be a risk factor?
Belief that family matters should not be shared outside
What environmental factor can protect against abuse?
Stable housing or access to healthcare
What decision-making issue do abusive caregivers face?
Inability to make decisions or delay gratification
What parenting challenge is associated with being a newcomer?
Lack of family support, language barriers, and not knowing available resources.
How can a child being unwanted or unexpected increase risk?
Parents may resent the child and perceive normal needs as “too much.”
How can family size contribute to risk?
Having several young children close in age can overwhelm caregivers.
What parental action can reduce risk through education?
Taking an educational parenting class.
What responsibility issue do abusive caregivers struggle with?
Accepting responsibility for their own actions instead of blaming others.
What knowledge gap can increase the risk of child abuse?
Limited or no understanding of child development stages.
What type of temperament is considered a risk factor according to Chess & Thomas?
A “difficult temperament.”
How can government policy affect risk factors?
Cuts to social programs reduce support for families and child protection services.
What environmental factor supports child safety and well-being?
Laws that protect children in abusive situations.
What expectation do abusive caregivers often have that leads to frustration?
Expecting instant results and obedience from their child.