STRENGTHENING FAMILIES™
The Strengthening Families approach and protective factors framework was introduced in 2003 by the Center for the Study of Social Policy (CSSP). This approach concentrates on individual family strengths within a positive and uplifting framework and helps prevent child abuse and neglect by focusing on the well-being of all families and helping families identify and build on their own protective factors.
The 5 Protective Factors are characteristics or strengths of individuals, families, and communities that act to reduce the risk of child abuse and neglect and promote positive well-being and healthy development. They are most commonly seen as attributes that help families successfully navigate difficult situations and everyday life.
For ways to engage your own family, or a family you work with, download our Strengthening Families Across NH Activity Books.
The
5
Protective Factors
"I will continue to have courage during stress or after a crisis."
Parenting can be stressful, but parents' ability to bounce back from tough situations and use constructive coping methods can improve their child’s outcomes. Resilience when parenting is the ability to properly manage all challenges that their family faces. It means creatively solving problems, building trusting relationships, maintaining a positive attitude, and seeking help when it is needed.
"I have friendships with people who support me and my parenting."
Friends, family, neighbors and community members provide emotional support, help solve problems, offer parenting advice and give concrete assistance to parents. Support networks are essential for parents and also provide opportunities for people to “give back,” an important part of self-esteem and a benefit for the community.
"I know what my child needs as they grow and develop."
Accurate information about child development and appropriate expectations for behavior at every age help parents see their children in a positive light and promote their healthy development. Information can come from many sources, including family members, parent education classes, and public libraries, but studies show the information is most effective when it comes at the precise time parents need it.
"My family has access to basic needs."
Meeting basic economic needs like food, shelter, clothing and health care is essential for families to thrive. When families encounter a crisis such as domestic violence, mental illness or substance abuse, adequate services and supports must be available to provide stability, treatment and support for family members to get through the crisis.
"My child feels loved, has a sense of belonging, and can get along with others."
Children's ability to interact positively with others, self-regulate their behavior, and effectively communicate their feelings has a positive impact on their relationships with their family, other adults, and peers. Challenging behaviors or delayed development creates extra stress for families, so early identification and assistance for both parents and children can curb negative outcomes and keep development on track.