Protective factors are defined as characteristics of the child, family, and broader environment that reduce the negative effect of adversity on child outcomes (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 (eg, maternal depression, substance abuse, family violence, persistent poverty) that increase a family's chances of adverse outcomes, including abuse and child abandonment. With this in mind, protective factors can also be described as conditions or attributes of individuals, families, communities, or the broader society that mitigate risks and promote healthy development and well-being. Protective factors reduce the chance that a child will have mental health problems and serve to protect children when they are exposed to risks. 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 Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Protective factors within a child include: an easy-going temperament, positive expectations about themselves and the future, a sense of independence, good communication, problem solving and social skills, expressing and managing their behaviors and emotions and ability to develop positive and 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: loss of a pet, death of a family member or family separation. Occasionally, children 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 achieving developmental milestones and a positive sense of self, can help them develop 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 “promotional” factors that strengthen family strength and a family environment that promotes optimal child and adolescent development. During childhood, many children will experience specific events that can be considered risk factors that can affect their well-being. -being. 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, parental separation, changing preschool or moving house, being affected by natural disasters, being diagnosed with a disability or medical illness . When children are uncertain about their world, they may become frightened and respond in unexpected or unusual ways, such as feeling anxious, clinging to parents or caregivers, feeling angry or irritable, losing motivation, wetting the bed, or sucking their thumb. . When children are provided a stable environment in which they understand their daily routine, they are supported and their emotions and behaviors can..