Possible Etiologies  of Elder Abuse · Isolation - reported cases of abuse by older persons are often people who are isolated from peers and other family members. Elder abuse can go undetected for long periods of time if person is isolated or not allowed to leave home. · Stress -  financial or emotional difficulties including death in the family; resentment; crowed living environment; responsibilities of caregiving; and lack of caregiver support which can lead to burn-out. · Psychopathology of the Perpetrator- psychiatric illness to include alcoholism and chemical dependency. · Dependency - seen with the elder or perpetrator; financial or housing dependence on the victim. Exchange of expected service would be provided to older person, even though perpetrator may not like the situation. · Transgenerational family violence theory - studies suggest that abusers were themselves abused.  Anger and frustration may be expressed by some in a violent manner, and that this tendency may be transmitted "transgenerationally".  Violence is a learned response to difficult life experiences.      (Weinberg & Wei, 1995)                                        Composite of Perpetrators · Mostly family members ( adult children or spouses) · Nursing Facilities - mostly certified nursing assistants · Mental illness and/or drug and alcohol abuse · Poor self-image · Poor relationship with abused; poor self control; dependency on the abused for money or housing; ineffective coping mechanisms; and fear of aging.     (Greenberg, 1996).