Definition from Western CAPT . Risk Factors Risk factors increase the likelihood of substance abuse. Studies suggest that the more risk factors an individual has, the more chances the individual will become involved in substance abuse. Research on risk and protective factors have established them as predictors of substance abuse. Protective Factors Protective factors, in contrast to risk factors increase an individual's resilience to substance abuse and act to buffer or decrease the effects of risk factors.
Protective factors can exist in the individual or be obtained from the environment.
Individual protective factors include self-determination, intelligence, and ability to resolve conflicts. Protective factors from the environment include strong bonds with parents and supportive caregivers. Protective factors make individuals more resilient and help them adapt successfully in the presence of adverse life situations. While the research on protective factors is more diffuse than for risk factors, the process by which risk factors interact with each other and influence individuals is not certain. For more information, on risk and protective factors, see research papers of Richard Hawkins and David Catalano.