In risk and resilience frameworks, which factor is identified as a protective resource?

• A. Persistent poverty
• B. Chronic illness
• C. Social support
• D. Economic deprivation

Answer: (C)

Risk and resilience frameworks look at factors that help people withstand and adapt to stress. A protective resource is something in a person’s environment that buffers the impact of adversity, reducing the chance that stress leads to negative outcomes. Social support fits this role because it provides emotional comfort, practical help, and information from others. This kind of support lowers perceived stress, encourages coping strategies, and can connect individuals to resources, all of which strengthen resilience during hardship. That buffering function is why social support is identified as a protective resource.

In contrast, persistent poverty, economic deprivation, and chronic illness are associated with increased vulnerability rather than protection. They represent risk factors that can amplify stress and make recovery or adaptation more difficult.