Risk and Protective Factors

The risk and protective factor model for prevention is similar to other public health models that measure factors shown in longitudinal studies to predict both positive youth development and problem behaviors identified across five domains of community, school, peers, family, and individual.

Research has identified many risk factors that increase the likelihood that children and youth will engage in a multitude of problem behaviors including substance abuse, delinquency, school drop out, violence, and teen pregnancy.

Protective factors have also been identified that can provide protection for children and youth and reduce or mitigate the impact of exposure to risk factors with the result of positive outcomes such as success in school.

This research provides support for communities and organizations that seek to prevent health and behavior problems in youth and promote positive youth development. By including predictors of both risk and protection outcomes in designing prevention strategies, communities can use a combination of effective actions that ensure both the reduction of risks and the enhancement of protection and assets.



Prevention Overview | Protective Factors | Risk Factors