Child Welfare Licence (CWEL) Practice Exam

Which factors contribute to a child's vulnerability?

1. Children with good verbal skills and stable home environments

2. Younger children, especially non-verbal ones, and those with disabilities

3. Children who excel academically

4. Older children facing peer pressure

The correct answer is: Younger children, especially non-verbal ones, and those with disabilities

The correct answer highlights the specific conditions that make certain children particularly vulnerable in various contexts. Younger children, especially non-verbal ones, often depend heavily on caregivers for support and communication, making them more susceptible to neglect or misunderstanding of their needs. Non-verbal children may struggle to express discomfort or seek help, putting them at a higher risk for abuse or lack of appropriate care. Moreover, children with disabilities often face additional challenges that can exacerbate their vulnerability. They might require specialized care or support that, if not provided, can lead to isolated situations or neglect. This combination of age-related developmental factors and the potential for physical or cognitive disabilities illustrates why these groups are more at risk compared to children who have better communication skills and more stable home lives. In contrast, children who possess strong verbal skills and come from stable environments are generally more equipped to navigate challenges and advocate for themselves. Those who excel academically may have support systems that contribute to their overall resilience and ability to cope with stresses. Older children dealing with peer pressure are certainly facing challenges; however, their ability to articulate their feelings might afford them a degree of resilience that younger, non-verbal children or those with disabilities may lack.