The resilient child is
flexible, empathic, responsive and caring. The resilient child regularly
demonstrates pro-social skills. In addition, this child has good communications
skills and shows the ability to use humor in stressful situations.
The resilient child is able to
think critically, reflectively, and creatively to solve cognitive and social
challenges. This child has good planning skills, enabling him/her to meet or
adapt to environmental needs. When the application of problem-solving skills
isn't effective, the resilient child will seek help.
The resilient child has a
strong sense of identity and positive self-esteem. He/she exhibits
independence, power and internal control. When confronted with negative images
or experiences, this child engages in adaptive distancing from the
situation.
| Sense of
Purpose/Belief in a Bright Future |
The resilient child is able to
set realistic goals. This child holds high educational aspirations. When
working toward meeting self-directed goals, the resilient is persistent,
optimistic, and hardy. His/her view of the world is one which equates the
future with opportunity and success.
Source: Benard, Bonnie, Fostering Resiliency in Kids: Protective
Factors in the family, School and Community, Western Regional Center for
Drug Free Schools and Communities, 1991.
Knowledge about oneself, processing
knowledge using individual skills, and applying knowledge to one's personal
life will build a child's competencies. They will become skilled in thinking
about how their individual characteristics and behavior affect whether they
accept or ignore drug and alcohol information. |
