What is the main purpose of protective factors in the context of child welfare?

The main purpose of protective factors in the context of child welfare is to prevent child abuse by creating a supportive environment. Protective factors are the conditions or attributes in families and communities that help individuals deal with stressful events and mitigate risk. These factors can include strong family bonds, social support networks, access to healthcare and mental health services, parental education, and economic stability. By promoting and increasing these protective factors, child welfare systems aim to build resilience within families, reduce the likelihood of abuse or neglect, and support healthier family dynamics. This prevention-focused approach underscores the importance of fostering environments where children can thrive, and families can function effectively, rather than solely reacting to incidents of abuse after they occur.