Which condition is recognized for increasing the risk of child abuse?

The recognition of mental illness as a condition that increases the risk of child abuse is grounded in research and the understanding of how psychological factors can influence behavior. Mental illness can impact an individual's ability to respond appropriately to stressors, manage emotions, and effectively parent. For instance, a parent struggling with untreated mental health issues may experience heightened irritability, depression, or anxiety, which can lead to impulsive and sometimes harmful behaviors towards their children.

Additionally, parents with mental illness may be more isolated and less likely to seek support, increasing their stress levels and making them more susceptible to substance abuse, which further exacerbates the risk of child abuse. Therefore, the relationship between mental health and parenting is crucial in identifying families at risk and implementing necessary interventions to support both the parent and the child.