Child Resilience Essay

The capability to overcome serious hardship is not naturally developed in all children (Purandare, 2013). Research suggests neither the child’s personality, nor his social environment alone, will develop resilience and ensure a positive outcome in life. It is an interaction between biology and environment that fosters his capability to cope and thrive in adverse situations (Kaiser & Rasminsky, 2017). The more difficult experiences a child faces, the more crucial it is that quality resources are available to him (Kaiser & Rasminsky, 2017). Through research, common factors important to the development of resilience have been identified (Purandare, 2013, p. 313).
“Resilience is a two-dimensional construct concerning the exposure of adversity
These relationships can provide opportunities for scaffolding and healthy development. Learning to manage stressful situations is significant for the development of resilience (Purandare, 2013). In a longitudinal study of 505 children who grew up in poverty, two thirds of the children ultimately developed serious problems, while the remaining one third experienced a more positive outcome void of psychological dysfunctions. In this study, one of the protective factors proved to be a strong relationship with a positive role model (Purandare, 2013). Kaiser and Rasminsky support the thought of a secure attachment providing the best protection against unfavorable circumstances in a child’s life
Young children desire consistent routines, as it creates a sense of security. Educators will do well to foster a responsive relationship with each child, while creating a safe and predictable classroom environment (Kaiser & Rasminsky, 2017). In this environment, emotional regulation or self-control can be taught and practiced, preventing the occurrence of challenging behavior and increasing resilience (Kaiser & Rasminsky, 2017). Relationships with peers can also offer support and protection, decreasing the probability of aggressive behavior (Kaiser & Rasminsky, 2017). In addition to positive and responsive relationships with their teachers and peers, an inclusive school environment is a key factor for developing resilience. School or childcare might be a child’s only safe place that promotes a feeling of belonging (Kaiser & Rasminsky, 2017). This sense of acceptance and belonging can protect him or her from challenging behavior, and academic failure (Kaiser & Rasminsky, 2017). Attending school provides opportunities for children to establish relationships, and the ability to deal with everyday challenges, contributing to the development of resilience (Purandare, 2013).
Factors that contribute to developing resilience, can also lend to negative outcomes in other areas of a child’s life (Kaiser & Rasminsky, 2017). Learning to deal with problems, stressful situations, and maintaining