ABSTRACT
A1 D Several risk factors have been identified for child abuse and neglect. These risk factors fall into the categories of child factors, parental factors and environmental factors. More recently researchers and policy makers have identified protective factors against abuse. The most significant risk factors are having a parent aged younger than 21 years, having a history of mental illness or depression, or living with a violent adult. Religious faith participation has been found to be one of several social/environmental protective factors.
