Introduction

Children with a disability are at greater risk for abuse or neglect by their parents or caregivers both in and out of foster care. The higher need demands, along with greater stressors and anxiety for the caregivers, all contribute to this risk (Wymbs, Et Al 2008). The existing systems that are in place to support parents and caregivers are overburdened and inefficient to meet the need. The inadequate systems and lack of social support put more pressure on caregivers or parents to face the struggles alone. Roughly 4% of all cases of reported child maltreatment involved a child with a physical or cognitive disability (Health, 2009).

Discussion  

Biological or foster parents of children with special needs are often dedicated caregivers, but the demands and stress placed on them can be overwhelming and contribute to unintentional or intentional neglect and abuse (Datta, 2002). There are societal risk factors such as isolation, discrimination and program cuts that increase that risk. Families tend to be isolated from natural societal support systems and respite opportunities that can put a child at risk for abuse or neglect. Thinking of a child with a physical or cognitive disability as asexual, society may not give them the same personal safety training that most children receive in elementary school (Tharinger D, 1996). And finally, children who already feel devalued by society believe that they are not worthy of care and respect and are less likely to disclose their abuse or neglect.

There are family and parental risk factors also linked to in abuse in special needs children.  A family may not be able to accept or deal with their child’s disability and direct their anger over the loss of a “normal” child toward the disabled child (Wikler, 1981).  The parents may lack the education, or coping skills needed to care for their child. When a child exhibits cha