These incidents occurred in 328 families, including all families cited for child abuse over a 10-year period (1966-1976) in a two-county area of Eastern Pennsylvania. When physical abuse reasons were contrasted with those for severe and nonsevere discipline, the child-related reasons predominated. These behaviors included refusals, fighting and arguing, accidental occurrences, dangerous or immoral behavior, or aggression. Adult fighting, drug and alcohol problems, expectations, and inadequate supervision also were associated with physical abuse; but the associations were weaker. Compared to nonabusive discipline, emotional cruelty was associated with the head of the household leaving the family, fighting between adults, and adult anger. Adult mental or physical illness and adult expectations were more associated with mild discipline than with emotional cruelty. Finally, reasons more characteristic of neglect included refusal to meet family needs, inadequate adult supervision, parental lack of knowledge, inappropriate use of medical facilities, unsafe home environments, and child's dangerous behavior. Reasons proportionately more representative of nonabusive discipline were child misbehavior, fighting, and causing inconvenience. 1 table and 19 references. (Author abstract modified)