Why are children physically abused and/or neglected?
Parents who abuse their children may love them very much but not very well. The most prevalent reasons for child abuse and neglect are: • The parents were abused as children and lacked a successful model of parenting and family life. • Immaturity, the absence of parenting preparation skills, and a lack of understanding of child development often result in the creation of unrealistic expectations for a child s behavior. When the child fails to meet these expectations, frustration on the part of the parent may erupt in anger toward the child. • Abusing parents often feel isolated or keep themselves isolated from others. They may expect the child to satisfy their unmet emotional needs. • Financial pressures, poor housing conditions, loss of a job and the inability to provide for the needs of the family can cause parents to feel overwhelmed and unable to cope. • Alcohol and substance abuse compound the chances for loss of control and eruption of violent behavior. Back to Top What is emotio
