NCJ Number
245716
Date Published
February 2014
Length
10 pages
Annotation
This issue brief provides an overview of protective factors approaches used for the prevention and treatment of child abuse and neglect.
Abstract
This issue brief was prepared by the Children's Bureau of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Administration on Children, Youth, and Families (ACYF). The brief provides an overview of protective factors approaches used for the prevention and treatment of child abuse and neglect. Protective factors are conditions or attributes within families and communities that can reduce the risks for child abuse and neglect. This report describes various protective factors approaches, such as Strengthening Families, Youth Thrive, and the CDC's (Centers for Disease Control's) Essentials for Childhood. The report also discusses the 10 protective factors identified by the ACYF as being most effective at reducing the risk of child abuse and neglect. These factors are self-regulation, relational skills, problem-solving skills, involvement in positive activities, parenting competencies, caring adults, positive peers, positive community, positive, school environments, and economic opportunities. The report also highlights relational protective factors and societal or community protective factors that are important for reducing the risk of child maltreatment. Tables and a list of resources