Protective factors are defined as characteristics of the child, family, and broader environment that reduce the negative impact of adversity on the child's future (Masten and Reed 2002). For protective factors to come into play, it is important to understand risk factors. Risk factors refer to stressful conditions, events, or circumstances (e.g., maternal depression, substance abuse, family violence, persistent poverty) that increase a family's chances of poor outcomes, including abuse and neglect towards children. In this light, protective factors can also be described as conditions or attributes of individuals, families, communities, or society as a whole that mitigate risks and promote healthy development and well-being. Protective factors reduce a child's risk of experiencing mental health problems and serve to protect children when they are at risk. The more protective factors there are in a child's life, the less likely they are to develop difficulties. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay. Protective factors in a child include: easy-going temperament, positive expectations of himself and the future, a sense of independence, good communication, problems. problem-solving and social skills, expressing and managing their behavior and emotions and the ability to develop positive, lasting relationships with friends and family. Having the support of a wide circle of family, friends and community members allows children to be protected from the possible negative effects of events such as: the loss of a pet, the death of a a family member or family separation. Occasionally, children will exhibit behavior that suggests the presence of internal risk factors, which may be part of their temperament or personality. Some examples of these behaviors include withdrawing or avoiding new situations, being irritable or aggressive, not being able to follow rules or instructions, and having difficulty understanding or using language. Building on a child's internal protective factors, such as meeting developmental milestones and positive self-esteem, can help them build resilience. Resilience has been defined as the maintenance of healthy/successful functioning or adaptation in the context of significant adversity or threat. It has also been argued that protective factors are also “promoting” factors that strengthen family strengths and create a family environment that promotes the optimal development of children and youth. During childhood, many children will experience specific events that can be considered risk factors that may influence their well-being. -be. However, just because children are exposed to a risk factor does not mean they will develop mental health problems. As long as children are surrounded by caring and supportive adults, the impact of risk factors can be reduced. Some examples of specific risk factors are: loss or illness of a family member, friend or pet, separation of parents, change of nursery school or moving, being affected by a natural disaster, the diagnosis of a disability or an illness. When children are unsure of their world, they may become frightened and react..