Risk and protection factors in minors in situations of exclusion

Children at risk of social exclusion face numerous challenges that affect their development. In this article, We explore the main risk and protection factors, and how professionals can intervene to improve the opportunities of these young people.

What do you think is the most difficult risk factor to address when working with minors?

Childhood and adolescence are decisive stages in a person's development.However, not all children have the same opportunities to grow up in a safe and protective environment. Children in situations of social exclusion face multiple risk factors that hinder their full development and that can generate negative effects in the long term. These risks not only impact their immediate well-being, but can compromise their future opportunities in terms of education, employment, interpersonal relationships and health. Fortunately, there are also protective factors that can counteract these effects and offer children at risk the necessary tools to overcome them.

Risk factors in minors in situations of exclusion

Risk factors refer to those conditions or circumstances that increase the likelihood that a child will experience emotional, educational or social difficulties. In the case of children in situations of exclusion, these factors are aggravated by the lack of resources and family, school or community support.

1. Unstable family environment: The family context plays a crucial role in the development of children. Families with situations of domestic violence, substance abuse, neglect or emotional abandonment create a harmful environment for children. Children who grow up in these contexts tend to develop behavioral problems, poor academic performance and difficulties in establishing healthy relationships with others.
2. Poverty and lack of resources: Poverty is one of the most prevalent risk factors for social exclusion. Children living in low-income families often face barriers to accessing essential services such as education, health and adequate nutrition. This situation not only limits their physical and mental development, but also affects their self-esteem and future prospects.
3. Difficulties in the school environment: School should be a protective environment, but for many excluded children, it represents a source of frustration and marginalization. Lack of academic support, bullying or exclusion by peers can aggravate the situation of these children, leading to early school leaving or poor academic performance, which perpetuates the cycle of exclusion.
4. Emotional and mental health problems: Minors in situations of exclusion often suffer from emotional and mental health problems resulting from the lack of stability in their environment. Prolonged exposure to stress, uncertainty and abuse can lead to the development of anxiety disorders, depression or behavioural problems. In addition, the lack of access to adequate mental health services worsens this situation.
5. Unfavorable social environments: The social environment in which excluded children grow up is often marked by violence, crime or lack of opportunities. Marginalized communities tend to be the scene of higher rates of juvenile delinquency, gangs or drug use, which exposes children to additional risks that can compromise their well-being and future.

Protective factors

Despite the multiple risk factors they face, there are protective factors that can help these children develop resilience and overcome the difficulties presented by their contexts. These factors are essential to minimise the negative effects of the risks and provide them with an opportunity to break the cycle of exclusion.

1. Family and community support: a family environment that, despite economic difficulties, is able to offer emotional support, structure and affection, acts as a crucial protective factor. Likewise, the presence of community support networks, such as educational centers, social programs, or extracurricular activities, can provide children with a sense of belonging and stability.
2. Access to education: Education is a fundamental tool for protecting minors in situations of exclusion. Educational programs that adapt to the needs of these minors, that offer personalized tutoring and that promote inclusion can make a significant difference in their development. School can become a safe place where minors develop academic, emotional and social skills essential for their future.
3. Social intervention programs: Intervention programs aimed at minors in situations of exclusion can act as a bridge to inclusion. These initiatives usually offer psychological support, workshops on social and professional skills, as well as recreational activities that allow them to strengthen their self-esteem, acquire new skills and develop positive bonds with other children and adults. Intervention programs also often work with families, promoting the development of parenting skills that benefit the children's environment.
4. Positive role models: Having positive role models, whether family members, teachers or community members, can positively influence the development of at-risk children. These role models provide examples of resilience, discipline and self-improvement, giving children a more optimistic view of their future.
5. Development of social and emotional skills: Interventions for children in situations of exclusion should focus on the development of social and emotional skills. Programs that foster emotional intelligence, empathy and conflict resolution allow children to better manage their emotions and face the challenges of daily life. These skills not only improve their personal well-being, but also facilitate their inclusion in the community and their ability to establish healthy relationships.

Minors in situations of social exclusion face a complex set of risk factors that negatively impact their development. However, the presence of protective factors, such as family support, access to education and participation in intervention programs, can make a big difference in their lives. Early intervention and the creation of support networks are key to offering these children the opportunity to build a more promising future, in which they can overcome the obstacles of their environment and reach their full potential. Would you like to work for a better childhood? Enroll in the Postgraduate Course in Intervention with Minors of EIM!