This presentation examines the role of protective factors in guarding at-risk youth from the development of anxiety and depression that may manifest as a result of exposure to chronic violence. Future work on the role of protective factors can aid in the advancement of programs targeted to at-risk, urban youth. The presenter, Saritha Teralandur, is a second year M.S. student at DePaul University. Her research interests include child and adolescent psychology and neuropsychology.