Which of the following is a social/environmental risk factor?

• A. Cultural acceptance of abuse
• B. Good access to healthcare
• C. Strong family support
• D. Regular employment

Answer: (A)

Social and environmental risk factors are conditions in a child’s surroundings that raise the likelihood of harm or abuse. Cultural acceptance of abuse is a risk factor because when a society or community views abuse as normal or acceptable, it lowers the barriers to harmful behavior and makes intervention less likely. This normalization can silence victims, discourage reporting, and allow abuse to continue. By contrast, good access to healthcare, strong family support, and regular employment are protective factors that provide resources, stability, and support that help prevent abuse or enable earlier detection. So, cultural acceptance of abuse best fits the idea of a social/environmental risk factor.