What are protective factors that are known to help reduce the incidence of child abuse?

The correct answer highlights protective factors that contribute to reducing the incidence of child abuse by emphasizing the importance of strong family support, stable relationships, and access to resources. Strong family support provides children with a sense of safety, love, and belonging, which can mitigate stressors that may lead to harmful situations. When families have stable relationships, there is often better emotional regulation among parents, which results in healthier coping mechanisms and less likelihood to resort to abusive behavior.

Access to resources is also crucial as it ensures that families can meet their basic needs including food, shelter, and healthcare, thereby reducing economic stressors that can contribute to family conflict or violence. By addressing these protective factors, communities can foster environments in which children are less vulnerable to abuse.

The other options do not fully represent the holistic approach needed to prevent child abuse. While financial stability and community engagement are beneficial, they alone do not encapsulate the support and resources essential for effectively lowering abuse risks. Strict discipline techniques focus on punitive measures rather than supportive parenting practices, and while legal support and mentoring programs can be helpful, they do not address the immediate needs of family and relational dynamics that are critical to reducing abuse.