The exact cause of child abuse is not known, however studies regarding child abuse have showed a strong correlation between the act of child abuse and specific influential factors. First, if a parent was exposedphysicalemotionalexperiencedisciplinesubstance abuse problem. Recent studies have found that a parent is much more likely to physically or emotionally abuse a child if the parent uses drugs such as cocaine, heroine, or consumes alcohol. Extreme stress and pressure has been cited as a cause for child abuse.
This may include, financial stress, or pressure related to problems at work or within relationships. Studies have shown that in times of recession or economic crisis, the instance of physical and psychological child abuse increases. Another common cause for child abuse is when a parent of a child is suffering from depression, or another mental or emotional problem. These psychological abnormalities may cause a parent to be angry, violent or indifferent, and redirect these emotions towards their child.