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. Author manuscript; available in PMC: 2014 Sep 23.
Published in final edited form as: Fam Process. 2011 Sep;50(3):410–430. doi: 10.1111/j.1545-5300.2011.01366.x

Table 3.

Protective Factors and Mechanisms

Protective Factors Protective Mechanisms (Selected Examples)
Within family communication Adolescents feel supported and understood by parents regarding traumatic memories/experiences, emotional distress, school issues, and social and cultural transitions.
Parental monitoring and supervision Parents invest time, gather information, and maintain relationships to promote adolescent safety and development.
Family emphasis on education Parents actively and affirmatively encourage education through talking with their children.
Informed families Parents and youth have adequate knowledge regarding their rights, responsibilities, and short- and long-term educational goals and plans.
Family advocacy for youth Parents and youth advocate for youth’s education rights, needs, opportunities, and help-seeking with appropriate persons and organizations.
Family communication with school Parents are in ongoing and open communication with teachers and administrators regarding their children’s performance, needs, and difficulties.
Family outreach Parents and youth actively draw additional support from community supports such as churches, agencies, clinics, and other families.
HHS Vulnerability Disclosure