Which of the following individuals is more likely to be abused?

• A. An elderly person living independently with no cognitive impairment
• B. An adult with strong social support and no history of trauma
• C. A child living in a household with a history of domestic violence
• D. A teenager who has never experienced family conflict

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the context of abuse risk factors by reviewing psychological research on vulnerability. Abuse is more likely in environments where there is a history of violence or instability.
2. Step 2: Analyze each individual's situation in terms of known risk factors for abuse. For example, an elderly person living independently with no cognitive impairment generally has lower risk compared to those with impairments or isolation.
3. Step 3: Consider the role of social support and trauma history. An adult with strong social support and no trauma history is less likely to be abused because social networks often provide protection and resources.
4. Step 4: Focus on the child living in a household with a history of domestic violence. Research shows that children in such environments are at higher risk of abuse due to exposure to violence and potential neglect or direct harm.
5. Step 5: Evaluate the teenager who has never experienced family conflict. Without family conflict or other risk factors, the likelihood of abuse is comparatively lower.