Distinguish between protective factors and risk factors with examples.

• A. Protective factors increase risk and reduce wellbeing.
• B. Protective factors reduce risk and promote wellbeing (e.g., supportive relationships); risk factors increase risk (e.g., chronic stress, trauma).
• C. Risk factors have no impact on wellbeing.
• D. Protective factors and risk factors are the same.

Answer: (B)

Protective factors are influences that help buffer a person against adversity and support wellbeing. They reduce the impact of stressors and promote resilience, so even in tough circumstances, a person is more likely to stay healthy and function well. Examples include supportive relationships with family or friends, effective coping skills, access to resources such as stable housing and healthcare, and a positive school or work environment.

Risk factors, on the other hand, are conditions that increase the likelihood of negative outcomes when someone faces challenges. They can make stressors more harmful and raise the chance of developing problems like anxiety, depression, or maladaptive behaviors. Examples include chronic stress, exposure to trauma, poverty, parental mental illness, and substance abuse in the family.

The best statement captures these roles: protective factors reduce risk and promote wellbeing (for example, supportive relationships), while risk factors increase risk (such as chronic stress or trauma). This reflects how people can be more or less vulnerable depending on the balance of these influences.

It wouldn’t fit because protective factors don’t increase risk, risk factors do have an impact, and they aren’t the same thing.