Chilld Abuse and Neglect
             Chapter 3 Essay
             Before a child is born there are factors which can put a child at risk for maltreatment. During the mothers' pregnancy, factors that can contribute to maltreatment of a baby are the parents' attitude towards the pregnancy. If the pregnancy is not something that both parents hoped or planned for, their ability to love and care for the baby may become diminished. Stability, maturity and mental health can hinder the parents' ability to want and care for the unborn child.
             A woman's body and needs change during pregnancy. For some women these changes can be extremely difficult. Blaming the unborn child for her discomfort is a factor that can contribute to maltreatment of the child. Another mother may feel that the pregnancy is "about herself". Once the pregnancy is over and the child is born, the attention is shifted from mother to baby. The mother may become resentful that the baby is receiving the attention now.
             When a child who does not meet his/her parents' expectations is born, chances of the child being maltreated increase. Conflict can be created between the parents if the baby is congenitally malformed. For the parents who already have conflicts, giving birth to a child with birth defects can be devastating.
             Bonding and making a good adjustment are necessary for mother and child. When a good adjustment has not been made the infant often can develop an irritable high-pitched cry. The pitch and intensity of the cry can be very stressful and frustrating to a new mother, causing her to feel inadequate.
             The more the infant cries, the more frustrated the mother becomes. It is very difficult to determine what is bothering the baby when they have this type ...