ProFACES Assessment Tool: Assessing Resilience

The ProFACES (Protective Factors Against Childhood Experiences Survey) Assessment Tool is a new survey designed to identify protective factors and social assets that can buffer the negative impacts of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Complementing the FACES (Factors Affecting Childhood Experiences Survey), which assesses for the presence of ACEs, ProFACES focuses on understanding the strengths and resources individuals have that can promote well-being and resilience.

Understanding protective factors is crucial because it provides a more comprehensive picture of an individual's experiences beyond just adversity. By identifying these strengths, we can develop more effective and holistic interventions and support systems that build upon existing assets to foster positive outcomes. Assessing social assets, such as supportive relationships and community resources, further informs our understanding of the resources available to individuals.

Please note that the ProFACES Assessment Tool is currently in the development and testing phase, and the questions below are provided as examples:

Sample Questions from the ProFACES Assessment Tool:

• Do you believe, know, or think that a parent, stepparent, or sibling would defend you against a person insulting or verbally threatening you? (Yes/No/Don't Know or Does not apply)
• Has a relative or an authority figure in your life (e.g., coach or teacher) ever spoken up for you when someone swore at you, insulted you, or put you down verbally? (Yes/No/Don't Know)
• Has your parent, stepparent, caregiver, or sibling ever taught you how to stand up for yourself when someone tries to hurt or harm you? (Yes/No/Don't Know)
• Do you have someone you trust to tell if anyone were to ever sexually abuse you, touch your private parts, or ask you to touch their private parts in a sexual way against your will? (Yes/No/Don't Know)
• Do you often feel that your family or caregiver loves you unconditionally? (Yes/No/Don't Know)
• Do you have a connection with a higher power or find strength and comfort in your religion or spirituality? (Yes/No/Don't Know)
• Do you feel comfortable playing outside in your neighborhood? (Yes/No/Don't Know)
• Do you have a playground or recreation center in your neighborhood? (Yes/No/Don't Know)
• Do you have a favorite teacher at your school? (Yes/No/Don't Know)

Rationale:

The ProFACES assessment tool is being developed to address the need for a comprehensive understanding of children's experiences, going beyond the identification of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) to also assess for protective factors and social assets. While ACEs are significant predictors of negative health and social outcomes, focusing solely on adversity neglects the strengths and resources that can mitigate the impact of trauma and promote resilience. By understanding both risk and protective factors, a more balanced and complete view of a child's situation can be obtained, informing more effective interventions and support.

Importance:

Assessing protective factors is crucial for several reasons:

• It allows for the identification of existing strengths and resources within individuals, families, and communities that can be leveraged to promote positive development and well-being.
• It shifts the focus from a deficit-based approach (solely addressing problems) to a strengths-based approach, which empowers individuals and communities by recognizing their inherent resilience.
• It provides valuable information for tailoring interventions and support services to build upon existing assets, making them more effective and sustainable.
• Understanding social assets, such as supportive relationships, community resources, and access to services, highlights the importance of the social context in promoting resilience.

Benefits:

The benefits of incorporating the assessment of protective factors, as facilitated by tools like ProFACES, include:

• Improved understanding of the complex interplay between adversity and resilience.
• More holistic and effective interventions that address both risk and protective factors.
• Enhanced capacity to promote positive outcomes, even in the presence of adversity.
• Informed policy and practice that fosters supportive environments and builds community resilience.

Implications:

The implications of utilizing a tool like ProFACES are significant for various fields:

• Research: It allows for more nuanced research on child development, trauma, and resilience, leading to a deeper understanding of the factors that contribute to well-being.
• Practice: It informs the development of more effective prevention and intervention programs in healthcare, education, and social services.
• Policy: It can guide the development of policies that promote supportive environments for children and families, fostering resilience at the community and societal levels.