What do protective factors refer to in a preventative context?

In a preventative context, protective factors are defined as supportive characteristics that help reduce the likelihood of negative outcomes, such as substance abuse or other risky behaviors. These factors can include personal attributes, family dynamics, and community resources that bolster an individual's resilience against potential problems.

For example, positive relationships with family and friends, good mental health, and access to supportive educational environments can all serve as protective factors. They help individuals manage stressors and navigate challenges in a healthier manner, ultimately promoting overall well-being and reducing the probability of substance use and related issues.

The other options do not accurately represent the concept of protective factors. Traits that increase the likelihood of problem outcomes contradict the positive nature of protective factors, while independent community support systems are a component of protective factors, but not all protective factors are independent or community-based. Lastly, strategies for promoting substance use do not relate to prevention or protective factors and instead concern risk behaviors, which protective factors aim to mitigate.