Resiliency Theory: A Strengths-Based Approach to Research and Practice for Adolescent Health

摘要

Youth researchers often focus on cataloging risks and fixing problems. This is, of course, understandable, because vulnerable youth require attention, and we most certainly want to address the deleterious factors that may contribute to poor outcomes for youth. In this theme issue of Health Education & Behavior, Isomaa, Vaananen, Frojd, Kaltiala-Heino, and Marttunen (2013), for example, illustrate the value of defining high-risk individuals in need of attention. These kinds of studies are necessary and useful, but they are problem-focused reference points that often translate to change strategies that emphasize amelioration. In contrast, a resiliency paradigm orients researchers and practitioner to positive factors in youth's lives that become the focus of change strategies designed to enhance strengths. Some of the studies in this theme issue focus on adolescent strengths but do not necessarily apply a resiliency paradigm (e.g., Shneyderman & Schwartz, 2013).