What are the differences between risk factors and protective factors? Name two of each for each of Bronfenbrenner's levels of influence. How are risk and protective factors related to resilience?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Answer is Risk factors and protective factors are both important in understanding human development and behavior. Risk factors are characteristics or experiences that increase the likelihood of negative outcomes, while protective factors are characteristics or experiences that decrease the likelihood of negative outcomes and promote positive development.

Bronfenbrenner's levels of influence include the microsystem, mesosystem, exosystem, and macrosystem. Here are two examples of risk factors and protective factors for each level:

Microsystem:
- Risk factors: Family conflict, parental substance abuse
- Protective factors: Supportive family relationships, positive parent-child interactions

Mesosystem:
- Risk factors: Peer pressure, school bullying
- Protective factors: Strong teacher-student relationships, involvement in extracurricular activities

Exosystem:
- Risk factors: Community violence, lack of access to healthcare
- Protective factors: Safe neighborhood, access to community resources

Macrosystem:
- Risk factors: Societal discrimination, economic inequality
- Protective factors: Social support networks, policies promoting equality and justice

Risk and protective factors are closely related to resilience. Resilience refers to the ability to adapt and thrive in the face of adversity. Protective factors can help build resilience by buffering the negative effects of risk factors and promoting positive development. For example, a child who experiences family conflict (a risk factor) may still thrive if they have supportive relationships with other family members or access to community resources (protective factors). Understanding and addressing both risk and protective factors is essential for promoting resilience and positive outcomes in individuals and communities.

What Are the Differences Between Risk Factors and Protective Factors