Identifying Risks and Protective Factors for Intentional Injuries

Defining Protective Factors and the Goal of Prevention

The primary learning competency for Week $1$, Day $1$ focus is to discuss ways to protect oneself from intentional injuries. This begins with Identifying Risks and Protective Factors. Protective factors are defined as those specific conditions or characteristics that function to reduce risks and promote the healthy development and well-being of children, youth, and families. In simpler terms, these are considered positive countermeasures that empower children, youth, and families to build resilience, progress in terms of character, skills, and knowledge development, and advocate for social relationships that diminish risk exposure. These factors contribute significantly to both short-term and long-term positive outcomes. Prevention as a strategy requires an extensive and comprehensive understanding of the underlying factors that influence violence, with the ultimate goal being to stop violence before it can even begin.

Comprehensive Breakdown of the Five Core Protective Factors

There are $5$ specific protective factors shown to increase family strengths, enhance child development, and effectively reduce the risk of child abuse and neglect. The first is Resilience ($1$), which is the ability of an individual to manage and find a solution to every situation they may encounter. The second is Social Connection ($2$), where friends, family, and various members of the community lend emotional and proper support to the child or victim in general. The third factor is Social-emotional Competence ($3$), which includes the ability of the child or victim to positively interact with others and express his feelings effectively. The fourth is Concrete Support in Times of Need ($4$), which dictates that when a situation arises, the individual must know exactly when, where, and to whom they can turn to obtain support. The fifth factor is Knowledge of One's Rights ($5$), requiring accurate information regarding an individual's rights and obligations so they can take their ground in a given situation.

Protective Factors for Group-Based Violence and Abduction

Specific intentional injuries require targeted protective measures. For threats involving Gang and Youth Violence, Illegal Fraternities, and Extortion, the primary protective factors include active parental involvement and monitoring, as well as robust family support. Regarding Kidnapping and Abduction, the protective factors include maintaining high friendship quality and seeking social support, such as tangible help and support from neighbors. This also involves Neighborhood Collective Efficacy, which is characterized by community cohesiveness, connectedness, mutual trust, and a shared willingness to intervene for the common good. Additionally, the coordination of resources and services among community agencies is vital. Individually, one should always look for a safer place to go and proactively develop a safety plan for departure.

Major Legal Protections and Acts in the Philippines

There are four major existing laws and policies in the Philippines designed to protect individuals from intentional injuries and exploitation.

1. The Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, & Discrimination Act ($RA\,7610$) provides protection to children against all forms of abuse, exploitation, and discrimination, acknowledging their unique situation in society. This law provides sanctions for violations of children's rights, including trafficking, child prostitution, and other forms of sexual abuse.

2. The Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of $2003$, enacted on May $26$, $2003$, aims to eliminate and punish human trafficking, especially of women and children. It establishes institutional mechanisms necessary to protect and support persons who have been trafficked.

3. The Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act ($RA\,9262$) recognizes the critical need to protect the family and its members, specifically women and children, from violence and any threats to their personal safety.

4. The Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act ($RA\,9344$) covers the different stages involving children at risk and children in conflict with the law. This comprehensive policy spans the entire process from prevention through to rehabilitation and reintegration into society.