Suggestions for Families to Improve Children's Psychological Resilience

Answers to the following questions were sought in early resilience studies:

1-) Why do some people cope better with difficult, stressful and traumatic effects and adapt in a healthy way?

2- ) What makes these people different from others?

When the concept of psychological resilience first emerged in the 1970s, it was considered an unchangeable personality trait. Children who can cope with risks in a healthy way and continue their normal development are described as “invulnerable/solid children” (Winders, 2014). However, most of the researchers now consider resilience as a dynamic process that emerges as a result of the ongoing interactions between the child and his/her environment (Luthar & Zelazo, 2003) rather than an innate characteristic of the child. When evaluated, resilience is no longer an extraordinary feature in new period research. When protective and improving factors are supported, people will be better equipped against the risks they may face throughout their lives (Masten,1024).

Psychological resilience is a dynamic process. The term psychological resilience is defined as being able to achieve positive results in difficult situations, maintain development and adapt well to these difficulties.

Psychological resilience is different from the concepts of temperament, resilience, social competence, and coping. In order to be able to talk about resilience, the resulting adaptation or positive development must be revealed in conditions that can be considered risky.

In addition, resilience is not only a protective power for the individual against difficulties. At the same time, it is with individuals in all their relationships, in all roles they take, in short, at every stage of life and serves the well-being of individuals.

The psychological resilience of children and adolescents depends on their families, social environment and society. Internal and external protective factors that help the development of resilience can be supported and improved. So what can families do about this?

Spending time together: children become emotionally stronger when they feel loved and valued.

Expressing their feelings: Teaching children that they can share their feelings with someone they trust supports their psychological resilience. /p>

It is also very important to praise their efforts when they experience a failure or disappointment, to be process-oriented rather than result-oriented, and to encourage them to try again. In addition, admitting mistakes to ensure that mistakes are a part of learning and development will also strengthen children and adolescents emotionally.

Another important point is that parents are positive role models. Being a parent who is aware of their emotions, uses their coping skills, stays calm and accepts their responsibilities enables children to model in the same way.

Physical health is also closely related to psychological resilience. It is necessary to ensure that children eat healthy, get enough sleep, and do physical exercises and breathing exercises appropriate for their age.

As a result, studies show that; Psychological resilience is a set of skills that can be developed, and families have a great responsibility in helping children acquire these skills. In this process, it is also very important to get expert support when necessary.

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