Table : TABLE 14.3
Risk and Protective Factors for Mental Disorders
Risk FactorsProtective Factors

Academic failure

Birth complications

Caring for those who are chronically ill or who have a neurocognitive disorder

Child abuse and neglect

Chronic insomnia

Chronic pain

Family disorganization or conflict

Low birth weight

Low socioeconomic status

Medical illness

Neurochemical imbalance

Parental mental illness

Parental substance abuse

Personal loss and bereavement

Poor work skills and habits

Reading disabilities

Sensory disabilities

Social incompetence

Stressful life events

Substance abuse

Trauma experiences

Aerobic exercise

Community offering empowerment, opportunity, and security

Economic independence

Effective parenting

Feelings of mastery and control

Feelings of security

Literacy

Positive attachment and early bonding

Positive parent-child relationships

Problem-solving skills

Resilient coping with stress and adversity

Self-esteem

Social and work skills

Social support from family and friends