Florida Child Protection Investigator (CPI) Certification Practice Test

Which protective factor helps in the social and emotional competence of children?

1. Concrete supports

2. Knowledge of parenting and child development

3. Parental involvement

4. Family history

The correct answer is: Knowledge of parenting and child development

The correct choice focuses on knowledge of parenting and child development, which serves as a crucial protective factor in enhancing the social and emotional competence of children. When parents or caregivers possess a strong understanding of child development, they are better equipped to respond to their children's emotional needs, recognize developmental milestones, and provide appropriate guidance and support. This knowledge allows parents to create nurturing environments that promote healthy emotional expression and social skills. Furthermore, understanding child development helps parents implement strategies that promote resilience in their children, assisting them in navigating emotional challenges and fostering positive relationships with peers. While the other options also play significant roles in a child's overall development, they do not directly correlate with enhancing social and emotional competence in the same way. Concrete supports refer to tangible resources that families may need, while parental involvement is vital for a child's overall success, it is the understanding of developmental stages and parenting methods that most directly influences emotional and social skills. Family history can impact a child but is more about the inherited or learned behaviors rather than an active factor in promoting competence.