Which factor places a child at risk for abuse?

• A. Bedwetting
• B. Autism spectrum disorder
• C. Acute bronchitis
• D. First-born child

Answer: (B)

Disability, especially when it involves communication and social interaction challenges like those seen in autism spectrum disorder, can increase a child’s vulnerability to abuse. Children with autism may have difficulty expressing distress or reporting harm, and they often require intensive caregiving. If caregivers are overwhelmed or lack support, the risk of mistreatment can rise, and the child may be less able to seek help or convey what’s happening. The other options don’t imply a caregiver or child vulnerability in the same way: bedwetting is a common issue with various causes and isn’t itself a predictor of abuse; an acute bronchitis illness is unrelated to abuse risk; and being the first-born child isn’t a recognized risk factor for abuse.