Which protective factor helps children adjust to social situations?

The chosen answer, social and emotional competence, is essential for helping children adjust to social situations. This competence encompasses a child's ability to understand and manage their own emotions, as well as recognize and influence the emotions of others. When children possess strong social and emotional skills, they are better equipped to navigate interactions with peers and adults, respond to social cues, and build meaningful relationships. This capability helps them form positive connections with others and develop a sense of belonging, which is crucial for their overall development and well-being.

Other options relate to various aspects of child welfare, but they do not directly enhance children's interactions in social settings. Parental resilience addresses the ability of caregivers to withstand stress and adversity, which indirectly supports children, but not in terms of their direct social skills. Concrete support refers to essential resources provided to families that help them meet basic needs, while knowledge of parenting focuses on how caregivers understand and implement effective parenting techniques. Each of these factors contributes to a nurturing environment, yet social and emotional competence specifically targets a child's ability to engage and thrive in social spaces.