Child abuse pediatrics

Common triggers of child maltreatment

Prevention begins by understanding normal childhood behaviors that trigger child maltreatment

As children grow and develop, they pass through many stages that can sometimes prove difficult for the best of parents. For example, all infants cry. All infants are dependent on others to care for them. Most toddlers have challenging behaviors during the “terrible twos.” Establishing rules, toilet training, and parenting in general can be very trying during this time. Some of these stages may pose particular difficulties for some parents or caretakers, especially those who are stressed by other life events and those who have little experience or knowledge about how to care for children.

Children under 4 are the most at risk to fall victim to child maltreatment. Developmentally appropriate behaviors of infants and toddlers are also behaviors that can drive a parent or caregiver crazy. Unfortunately, many of these behaviors are frequently triggers of child abuse.

Since children do not come with instruction manuals, parents often don't know what to expect from young children. Parents may believe children are being difficult or misbehaving, while their behavior is actually normal and expected for their age.  Learning about, and normalizing, developmentally 

Some of the most common triggers for child abuse include:

• Crying
• Discipline
• Toilet training

Content last reviewed: April 2010