The problem with that theory is that children who are predisposed to mental illness are usually much more sensitive to what might not be abuse to a child who is not inclined to become mentally ill.

Personally, I grew up in a violent and clearly abusive home.

My grown daughter grew up with my husband and I and our son in a very loving home. There was zero abuse. But my daughter, though doing very well in life, has battled severe anxiety since she was a small child.

I believe that most people who are mentally ill did experience abuse while growing up, but many did not. Also, poverty is a factor. A home might be free of abuse and very loving, but poverty can cause serious childhood issues.