Analysis and Reconceptualization of Resilience

Abstract

Analyzes the concept of resilience and proposes a reconceptualization which may prove useful. A type of determinative model of resiliency is pervasive in scientific literature, perhaps reflecting an inextricable part of the ways in which we define and explain not only human behavior, but virtually all phenomena with variable outcomes. However, while stresses and the qualities that determine endurance of an inanimate object or a non-sentient organism are often tangible, fairly constant over time, and measurable, the same approach is rarely effective in attempts to understand human behavior. These differences in approach and aspects of understanding complex behavior are described within the framework of substance abuse and its prevention. The role of risk is especially important to the exploration, as well as delineation, of resiliency. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved). (chapter)