Certified Prevention Specialist CPS Practice Exam

What undermines social problems or risk factors according to Werner et al.?

1. Coercive tactics

2. Protective factors

3. Peer influences

4. Environmental stressors

The correct answer is: Protective factors

The correct answer highlights protective factors as elements that counterbalance and mitigate the impact of social problems or risk factors. Protective factors are characteristics or conditions that foster resilience in individuals or communities, helping them to withstand or recover from adversities. According to Werner et al., understanding and reinforcing these protective factors can be crucial in the field of prevention and intervention, as they serve as buffers against potential risks, enhancing an individual's or group's ability to thrive despite challenges. For example, strong social support networks, positive relationships, and effective coping strategies are all protective factors that can help individuals navigate social problems effectively. By focusing on these strengths, practitioners can work towards reducing vulnerability and promoting overall well-being. The other options, while they represent various influences on social behavior, do not directly convey the concept of counteracting risk factors as effectively as protective factors do. Coercive tactics typically exacerbate problems, while peer influences and environmental stressors can either negatively impact or present challenges without offering the same positive reinforcement that protective factors provide.