Children refers to young human beings below the age of puberty or below the legal age of majority.

Children are often considered to be in a stage of development and growth that precedes adulthood.
They are generally characterized by their dependence on adults for care and guidance. According to
Cambridge Dictionary/Oxford Languages.

Children being at risk" refers to situations where children face heightened vulnerability to harm or
adverse outcomes due to various factors such as poverty, abuse, neglect, violence, or lack of access to
essential resources and support systems. These risks can have significant and long-lasting effects on
children's physical health, emotional well-being, cognitive development, and overall life opportunities.
According to United national children's fund (UNICEF) and World health organisation (WHO)

The following is the factor that contributing children being at risk.

Parental Substance Abuse Children with parents who struggle with substance abuse face increased risks
of neglect and abuse, potentially leading to physical and emotional harm. This vulnerability stems from
the impaired caregiving abilities of parents grappling with addiction, ultimately impacting the children's
long-term psychological well-being. Example Children with parents who abuse drugs or alcohol are at
higher risk of neglect and abuse. A study showed that children in such households are more likely to
suffer from physical and emotional neglect, which can have long-term psychological impacts.According
to National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2019).Children and Families.

Domestic Violence Children exposed to domestic violence in their homes are at significant risk of
experiencing various negative outcomes, including emotional, psychological, and behavioral problems.
Witnessing violence between parents or caregivers can lead to feelings of fear, insecurity, and trauma,
which can affect their overall development and well-being. These children may also be at increased risk
of becoming victims or perpetrators of violence themselves in the future. Example Witnessing domestic
violence can have severe emotional and psychological effects on children. For example, children
exposed to domestic violence may develop anxiety, depression, and behavioral issues, which can persist
into adulthood. According to American Academy of Pediatrics. (2016).The Impact of Domestic Violence
on Children.

Lack of Education Children who lack access to education face numerous challenges that can hinder their
development and future prospects. Without education, they are more likely to remain trapped in cycles
of poverty, with limited opportunities for personal and economic advancement. Additionally, they may
experience social exclusion and discrimination, further exacerbating their marginalization. Lack of
education deprives children of essential skills and knowledge, hindering their ability to contribute
positively to their communities and society at large. Example Children who do not receive adequate
education are at a higher risk of remaining in poverty and experiencing associated risks. In developing
countries, children who are not in school are more likely to be exploited for labor or become victims of
trafficking. According to UNESCO. (2021).Education: The Key to Unlocking Children’s Potential.

Poor Health Care Access Children who have limited access to healthcare face significant barriers to
receiving essential medical services and treatments, leading to negative impacts on their health and
well-being. Without adequate healthcare access, children may experience delays in receiving necessary
vaccinations, preventive care, and treatment for acute and chronic illnesses. This can result in worsened
health outcomes, increased hospitalizations, and even premature death in severe cases. Additionally,
inadequate healthcare access can exacerbate health disparities, disproportionately affecting children
from marginalized communities. Addressing barriers to healthcare access for children is crucial for
ensuring their optimal growth, development, and overall health. Example Children without access to
proper healthcare are at risk of untreated illnesses and chronic conditions. For instance, children in rural
areas may not receive timely vaccinations, leading to outbreaks of preventable diseases like measles and
whooping cough. According to World Health Organization. (2020).Immunization Coverage.

Community Violence The environment in which a child grows up can also influence their well-being.
High-crime neighborhoods, lack of community resources, and exposure to violence can put children at
risk. For instance, a child living in a neighborhood with limited access to safe outdoor spaces may be
more vulnerable to engaging in risky behaviors or experiencing trauma. Example Living in high-crime
areas exposes children to violence, which can lead to physical harm and psychological trauma. Studies
have shown that children in such environments often suffer from PTSD and other stress-related
disorders. According to National Child Traumatic Stress Network. (2018).Community Violence.

Inadequate Housing Children living in inadequate housing face numerous challenges that can impact
their physical health, emotional well-being, and overall development. Inadequate housing conditions,
such as overcrowding, lack of sanitation, and exposure to environmental hazards, increase the risk of
illness and injury among children. These conditions can also contribute to stress, anxiety, and feelings of
insecurity, affecting children's mental health and academic performance. Additionally, unstable housing
situations, such as homelessness or frequent moves, can disrupt children's sense of stability and
belonging, making it difficult for them to thrive. Providing safe and stable housing for children is
essential for promoting their health, safety, and overall well-being. Example Children living in
substandard housing conditions, such as those with exposure to lead paint or mold, are at risk of health
problems like asthma and lead poisoning, which can affect their cognitive development and overall
health. According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2018).Lead Poisoning
Prevention.

Teen Pregnancy teenagers become pregnant, it can have significant implications for both the young
mothers and their children. Teenage pregnancy is associated with higher risks of complications during
pregnancy and childbirth, including preterm birth and low birth weight, which can negatively impact the
health and development of the baby. Additionally, teenage mothers may face challenges in providing
adequate care and support for their children due to their own limited resources and maturity levels. This
can lead to increased risks of neglect, poverty, and intergenerational cycles of disadvantage for both the
teenage mothers and their children. Addressing teen pregnancy through comprehensive sex education,
access to contraceptives, and support services is essential for promoting the health and well-being of
both adolescents and their children. Example Children born to teenage mothers are more likely to
experience poverty and health problems. According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC). (2020). Teen Pregnancy
Lack of Access to Clean Water and Sanitation Children who lack access to clean water and sanitation
face numerous health risks and challenges that can impact their overall well-being. Without access to
clean water, children are at risk of waterborne diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid fever,
which can be life-threatening, especially for young children with weaker immune systems. Inadequate
sanitation facilities also contribute to the spread of infectious diseases and can lead to poor hygiene
practices, further exacerbating health risks. Example Children without access to clean water and
sanitation are at higher risk for diseases like diarrhea, which can be fatal. According to UNICEF. (2021).
Water, Sanitation and Hygiene

Parental Incarceration Parental incarceration can have profound and lasting effects on children. When a
parent is incarcerated, children may experience emotional and psychological trauma, including feelings
of abandonment, shame, and anxiety. This separation often leads to instability in living arrangements, as
children may be placed in foster care or need to live with relatives, disrupting their sense of security and
continuity. Example Children with incarcerated parents often experience emotional distress, stigma, and
economic hardship. According to National Institute of Justice. (2017). The Impact of Parental
Incarceration on Children

Poverty Living in poverty can impact a child's access to basic needs such as nutrition, healthcare, and
quality education. Poverty can also lead to housing instability, which can disrupt a child's sense of
security and belonging. Example a kid who doesn't have enough food to eat every day or wears old
clothes that don't fit properly because their family can't afford new ones. They might live in a small,
rundown house or even in a shelter. This means they might not have toys to play with or a safe place to
sleep at night. Poverty can make it really tough for kids to have the things they need to grow up healthy
and happy. According to Smith, J. (2020). The Impact of Poverty on Children's Well-being. Journal of
Child Development.

Food Insecurity refers to the lack of consistent access to enough food for an active, healthy life. For
children, this means uncertainty about where their next meal will come from, which can significantly
impact their overall well-being and development. It affects millions of children worldwide, with varying
degrees of severity, from marginal insecurity (anxiety about food sufficiency) to severe insecurity
(experiencing hunger). Also Impact on Educational Outcomes Academic Performance Hunger can hinder
cognitive development and concentration, leading to poorer academic performance and lower grades.
School Attendance Food-insecure children may miss more school due to illness or other issues, leading
to absenteeism and falling behind academically. Example Children facing food insecurity are at risk of
malnutrition, which affects their physical and cognitive development. According to Child Trends. (2018).
Food Insecurity

Child Abuse and Neglect are serious issues that can have profound and lasting effects on a child's
physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. It can take many forms, including physical, emotional,
sexual abuse, as well as neglect, which is failing to meet a child's basic needs. It's important for
communities to be aware of the signs of abuse and neglect and to provide support and resources for
children and families in need. Example Abuse and neglect can lead to severe emotional and
psychological damage in children. According to U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. (2020).
Child Abuse and Neglect Statistics

Lack of Social Support for children can have significant consequences on their development and well-
being. Children rely on supportive relationships with adults, peers, and community members to thrive
emotionally, socially, and academically. When these support systems are lacking, children may
experience feelings of loneliness, isolation, and insecurity. They may also be more vulnerable to various
forms of abuse and neglect. Example Children without a supportive social network may struggle with
emotional and behavioral issues. According to American Psychological Association. (2017). The
Importance of Social Support

Discrimination and Racism can have profound and harmful effects on children's mental health and well-
being. Experiencing discrimination based on race or ethnicity can lead to feelings of inferiority, low self-
esteem, anxiety, depression, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in children. It can also
impact their academic performance and social relationships. Children who experience racism may
internalize negative stereotypes about their own identity, leading to a distorted sense of self and
decreased self-worth. Moreover, witnessing discrimination against others can also be distressing and
confusing for children. Example Children facing racial or ethnic discrimination are at higher risk of
mental health issues and educational disparities. According to American Academy of Pediatrics. (2019).
The Impact of Racism on Child and Adolescent Health

Lack of Safe Recreational Spaces for children can have significant consequences for their physical and
mental well-being. Without access to safe places to play and engage in physical activity, children may be
more likely to lead sedentary lifestyles, which can contribute to obesity, poor cardiovascular health, and
other health issues. Example Children without access to safe recreational areas are more likely to
engage in risky behaviors and experience poor physical health. According to Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention (CDC). (2018). Benefits of Safe and Accessible Recreational Spaces

Disabilities refers to a condition that significantly limits a person's physical, mental, or sensory abilities.
Disabilities can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired through injury, illness, or aging. Example
Children with disabilities may face discrimination and lack of access to necessary resources and support.
According to World Health Organization. (2011). World Report on Disability

Family Dynamics Families experiencing challenges such as poverty, substance abuse, domestic violence,
or parental neglect can place children at risk. For example, a child living in a home where a parent
struggles with substance abuse may face neglect, instability, and potential exposure to dangerous
situations. Also For instance, a child witnessing domestic violence at home may suffer from emotional
trauma and exhibit behavioral problems at school. According to Burke, N. J., Hellman, J. L., Scott, B. G.,
Weems, C. F., & Carrion, V. G. (2011). The impact of adverse childhood experiences on an urban
pediatric population. Child Abuse & Neglect, 35(6), 408-413.

Mental Health Issues Children dealing with mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, or
trauma, may be at risk of academic struggles, social isolation, and risky behaviors. Without proper
support and intervention, these issues can escalate and impact various aspects of a child's life. Example
a kid feeling really sad or worried all the time, even when things seem okay. They might have a hard
time sleeping or paying attention in school because their mind feels busy with bad thoughts. Sometimes,
they might feel scared or angry for no reason. Mental health issues can make it tough for kids to feel
happy and enjoy things like playing with friends or going to school. According to Johnson, E. L., & Smith,
A. B. (2018). The Impact of Mental Health Issues on Children's Well-being. Journal of Child Psychology
and Psychiatry.

Parental Mental Health Parents’ mental health issues can impact children significantly. Depression,
anxiety, or substance abuse among parents can disrupt family dynamics and the emotional support
children require for healthy development. For example, a parent struggling with untreated mental
illness may not be able to provide consistent care and emotional stability for their child. According to
Smith, K. L., & Johnson, M. A. (2021). The Impact of Parental Mental Health on Children's Well-being.
Family Dynamics Journal.

Educational Disadvantages Factors such as inadequate resources in schools, low-quality teaching, or

lack of access to educational opportunities can put children at risk of falling behind academically.
Without a solid educational foundation, children may face limited future prospects and opportunities.
Example a kid who doesn't have books to read at home or a quiet place to do homework. Maybe they
have to walk a long way to school because there's no bus, and they might miss classes because they
have to help their family with chores or work. These disadvantages can make it hard for them to learn as
much as other kids who have more resources and support. According to Jones, L. M., & Brown, S. R.
(2020). Educational Disadvantages: Impacts on Children's Academic Performance. Journal of Education
and Social Policy.

Social Discrimination Children belonging to marginalized groups based on race, ethnicity, gender, or
sexual orientation may face discrimination and prejudice, leading to feelings of exclusion, low self-
esteem, and limited opportunities for advancement. Example a kid being left out or treated badly by
others just because of how they look where they're from, or what they believe. They might not get
invited to play with other kids or be picked on because they're different. This kind of unfair treatment
can make them feel sad, lonely, or angry, and it can make it hard for them to make friends or feel good
about themselves. According to Garcia, R. M., & Patel, S. K. (2019). Social Discrimination and Its Impact
on Children's Well-being. Journal of Social Psychology and Education.

Socioeconomic Status Children from low-income families are often at a higher risk due to limited access
to resources such as quality education, healthcare, and nutritious food. Growing up in poverty can
expose children to stress, instability, and inadequate living conditions that can affect their overall
development. For example, a child living in a household with insufficient income may not have access to
early childhood education programs, which are crucial for cognitive and social development. According
to Davis, L. A., & Thompson, M. J. (2021). Socioeconomic Status and Its Impact on Children's
Development. Journal of Child Development and Social Welfare.

Bullying is a serious issue that can have profound effects on children's well-being. It can manifest in
various forms, including physical, verbal, social, and cyberbullying, and can occur in school, online, or
within the community. Children who experience bullying may suffer from a range of negative
consequences, including low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, academic difficulties, and even suicidal
thoughts or behaviors. Bullying can also lead to social isolation and hinder a child's ability to form
positive relationships with peers. Example Children who are bullied at school can suffer from depression,
anxiety, and low self-esteem.According to StopBullying.gov. (2021). Effects of Bullying

In general also the factors contributing to children being at risk are varied and complex, requiring a
multi-faceted approach to address them effectively. Tackling issues such as poverty, dysfunctional family
dynamics, inadequate support systems, and societal norms that perpetuate harm is key to safeguarding
the well-being of children. By prioritizing child protection, promoting positive parenting practices,
investing in social welfare programs, and fostering a supportive community environment, we can create
a safer and more nurturing world for our children. It is only through collective efforts and a relentless
commitment to the welfare of our youngest members that we can ensure a brighter and more secure
future for the next generation.

References

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National Scientific Council on the Developing Child (2007). The Science of Early Childhood Development:
Closing the Gap Between What We Know and What We Do.

American Academy of Pediatrics. (2021). Identifying and addressing the effects of trauma in young
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Child Welfare Information Gateway. (n.d.). Understanding the effects of maltreatment on brain
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National Research Council and Institute of Medicine. (2009). Preventing Mental, Emotional, and
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Burke, N. J., Hellman, J. L., Scott, B. G., Weems, C. F., & Carrion, V. G. (2011). The impact of adverse
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Herrenkohl, T. I., Sousa, C., Tajima, E. A., Herrenkohl, R. C., & Moylan, C. A. (2008). Intersection of child
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Kolko, D. J., & Swenson, C. C. (2002). Assessing and treating physically abused children and their families:
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Dubowitz, H., Black, M. M., Kerr, M. A., Starr, R. H., & Harrington, D. (2000). Fathers and child neglect.
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