Younger parents, particularly teens and very young adults, are likely than older parents to abuse or neglect their children. Some of this heightened risk is thought to be due to parental age itself, as teens and young adults are more likely than older parents to struggle with impulse control and emotional regulation. In addition, young parents tend to be more likely than older parents to live in precarious financial situations and may lack adequate social support, both of which can further increase the risk of abuse or neglect.