What is a risk factor for child maltreatment?

A partner who is unrelated to the child can pose a significant risk factor for child maltreatment. This situation may lead to an increased vulnerability for the child, as there is a lack of established familial bonds and potentially less concern for the child's welfare from a non-biological figure. Research indicates that children living with non-related adults are at a higher risk of experiencing maltreatment, as these individuals may not have the same emotional or social motivations to care for the child compared to related guardians.

In contrast, having older parents typically correlates with more life experience and perhaps greater stability, which may reduce the likelihood of maltreatment. A child being 5 years old or older doesn't inherently increase risk; many children in this age range are well adjusted and may actually be in more stable environments. Additionally, parents with a stable income are often associated with better resources and reduced stress, which can contribute to a more nurturing home environment, thereby lowering the risk of maltreatment.