Who is a Child Abuser?
• Has been abused as a child – a life pattern of aggression and violence has been established. • Can be found in all cultural, ethnic occupational, religious and socio-economic groups and sexes • Has expectations too high for the child’s age • May be angry with the child • Does not know the best way to discipline the child • Uses abuse as a form of power • Not satisfied with child’s schoolwork • Has problems with employer or mate • Has financial troubles • Has a history of violence • May be immature • Has a cynical and distrustful personality • May be impulsive • May be isolated • Unhappy with themselves • Has drug or alcohol addiction • Feels justified in their action or feels it was appropriate • May be depressed or have mental health problems • Possesses few coping skills • Wants personal satisfaction over seeing to child’s needs • May be a pedophile • Lives near or below poverty level High Risk Children and Homes • Children born to adolescent mothers • Unplanned or unwanted pregnan
