Resilience is the ability to adapt to adversity and stress—to bounce back. The American Psychological Association has long promoted the concept of resilience through Public Education
presentations and brochures aimed toward teens. The cover article in a
recent edition of the APA Monitor on Psychology highlighted current research in the area of resilience in children. The takeaway messages:
- The presence of a consistent, supportive, and protective caregiver seems to be the most important factor in fostering resilience.
- Programs that support primary caregivers, particularly mothers, have been found to be effective in fostering resilience in children.
- The presence of supportive extended family members and caring adults makes a difference in overcoming adversity.
- Resilience is a process that can take many different pathways, and the availability and support of adults for children and adolescents confronting adversity is crucial.
As psychologists, we can play a critical role in supporting families, primary caregivers and youth to promote resilience.
Contributor:
Julie T. Steck, Ph.D., HSPP
CRG/Children’s Resource Group
"PsychBytes” is a weekly educational resource from the Indiana Psychological Association (IPA) provided for psychologists, their colleagues and their patients.
