Protective Factors

The Midwest Regional Center for Drug-Free Schools and Communities (1995) lists the following factors that can have a protective and positive influence on the lives of children:

Are involved in drug-free activities.
Respect authority.
Bond together in conventional peer groups.
Appreciate the unique contributions and talents of individuals.

School can positively influence youth if:

Teachers express high expectations.
The staff encourages goal setting and self-mastery.
Staff members view themselves as nurturing caretakers.
Teachers encourage pro-social development.
The staff provides leadership and decision-making opportunities.
The staff attends development programs in the areas of social development and cooperative learning.
Parents are involved in school activities and programs.
It provides alcohol, tobacco, and other drug-free alternative activities.

The community can be a good influence on youth if:

Norms and public policies support non-use among youth.
There is access to resources (housing, health care, child care, job training, employment, recreation, and so on).
It provides supportive networks and social bonding opportunities.
Youth are involved in community service programs.

The family can have a positive influence on the child if:

The parents seek prenatal care.
The parents develop a close bond with the child.
Education is valued and encouraged.
Stress is managed well.
Parents spend quality time with their children.
Parents use a high-warmth/low-criticism parenting style.
Parents express clear expectations.
Parents encourage supportive relationships.
Family responsibilities are shared."

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