Which factor is associated with an increased incidence of abuse within a family?

• A. Regular exercise
• B. Pregnancy
• C. Drug Abuse
• D. Sexual Orientation

Answer: (B)

Pregnancy brings heightened stress, financial strain, and shifts in family roles and dynamics, which can increase tension and power imbalances in a relationship. These factors can escalate conflicts and, in some cases, lead to abusive behavior from a partner. Because of this added vulnerability during pregnancy, it shows a stronger association with the incidence of abuse within a family. Regular exercise tends to reduce stress and is not a risk factor; drug abuse can contribute to violence but is a different risk pathway, and sexual orientation by itself does not determine abuse risk.