Resilience Theory: What Research Tells Us About Risk and Protective Factors

Understanding Resilience

Resilience refers to the ability to adapt and bounce back when faced with adversity. Researchers have identified key risk factors that make people more vulnerable, as well as protective factors that can build resilience.

Risk Factors

Poverty
Family dysfunction or instability
Exposure to violence
Discrimination
Physical or mental illness

Protective Factors

Supportive relationships
Problem-solving skills
Positive self-perception
Faith and spirituality
Therapy and counseling

Building Resilience

While risk factors are often outside of one’s control, research shows we can cultivate resilience by developing protective factors. This may involve building social connections, learning coping strategies, cultivating optimism and self-efficacy, finding purpose and meaning, and seeking help when needed.

An Ounce of Prevention

Studies also reveal that prevention is more effective than intervention after adversity has occurred. Implementing policies and programs that reduce poverty, violence, discrimination and other risk factors has the greatest impact on resilience.

FAQ

What are the key risk factors that impact resilience?

Poverty, family problems, exposure to violence, discrimination, physical and mental health issues are key risk factors that negatively impact resilience.

What are protective factors that can build resilience?

Supportive relationships, problem-solving skills, positive self-perception, faith and spirituality, and counseling/therapy can help build resilience.

Can people develop resilience later in life?

Yes, it’s never too late to develop protective factors for resilience through building social connections, learning coping strategies, cultivating optimism, finding purpose and meaning, and seeking help when needed.

Are some groups more resilient than others?

Those exposed to less adversity and risk factors tend to show greater resilience. But resilience depends more on protective factors and prevention than inherent traits.

What is the best way to improve resilience in society?

Implementing policies and programs that reduce poverty, violence, discrimination and other risk factors has the greatest societal impact on building resilience.