Which type of children are included in the at-risk children category?

The category of at-risk children encompasses a broad range of circumstances that can negatively impact a child's development, wellbeing, and future prospects. Victims of domestic violence and children of substance-abusing parents fall squarely within this category because they are exposed to environments that can be harmful to their physical safety and emotional stability.

Children who live in settings with domestic violence may experience trauma, instability, and a lack of secure attachments, which can lead to significant developmental challenges. Similarly, children of substance-abusing parents may encounter neglect, physical or emotional abuse, and an overall environment lacking in supportive care. These children face higher risks for various negative outcomes, including lower academic achievement, mental health issues, and difficulties in social relationships.

In contrast, children experiencing poverty alone, those with high academic performance, or exclusively those in foster care, while they may face their own challenges, do not capture the full spectrum of conditions that define at-risk children. The focus is particularly on those experiencing violence or problematic parental behaviors, which are critical factors that disrupt a child's ability to thrive.