Social Vulnerability in Adolescence: Intervention Strategies to Promote Resilience and Integral Development

Abstract

Introduction: Social vulnerability was defined as a condition of fragility in the face of social, economic and cultural risks that unequally affected the most vulnerable populations in Latin America. Globalization processes and economic policies intensified the difficulties for many families, especially those with adolescents, limiting their capacity for emotional, social and economic stability. This phenomenon particularly affected adolescents, who, going through a stage of simultaneous changes, were more susceptible to environmental pressures.
Development: The studies highlighted that poverty was the most important determinant of social vulnerability, intensifying problems such as exclusion, insecurity and lack of basic services. According to Barcelata Eguiarte (2015), poverty generated significant levels of stress that compromised the emotional and physical development of adolescents. To address these issues, Bronfenbrenner's bioecological theory was applied, which contextualized the interactions between microsystems such as family, school and community, offering a comprehensive vision for intervention. Likewise, Pender's Health Promotion Model (HPM) provided a practical approach by emphasizing the need to empower individuals through healthy behaviors.
Conclusions: It was concluded that addressing social vulnerability in adolescents required a comprehensive approach based on the promotion of protective factors such as education, extracurricular activities and support networks. The implementation of interdisciplinary strategies was essential to foster resilience and transform unfavorable environments into opportunities for development. This process demanded the active engagement of health, education and community teams to build more equitable and protective environments.