InBrief: The Science of Resilience

Updated: November 18, 2024

Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University


Summary

Resilience emerges from the interplay between individual characteristics and environmental influences. It involves finding a balance between challenging experiences and positive support from family and community. Genes can influence a person's sensitivity to adversity and shape their resilience "fulcrum" - the point at which positive and negative experiences are weighed. By understanding how genes and environments interact, we can better support individuals in navigating stress and building resilience. This video underscores the significance of fostering a nurturing environment to cultivate resilience in individuals.


Resilience and Interaction

Resilience is influenced by the interaction between individual characteristics and the environment where one has developed.

Counterbalance of Difficulties

Resilience is achieved by balancing difficult experiences with positive ones within the family and community.

Concept of Resilience as a Scale

Resilience can be visualized as a scale with a fulcrum, influenced by both negative and positive experiences.

Genetic Influence on Resilience

Genes play a role in determining a child's sensitivity to adverse experiences and can shape the fulcrum of resilience.

Effects of Experiences on Resilience

Experiences can move the fulcrum of resilience, impacting how subsequent events affect an individual positively or negatively.

Gene Response to Environments

Genes respond differently to various environmental situations, affecting the expression of chemicals and brain circuits that regulate responses to stress and anxiety.


FAQ

Q: What influences resilience according to the text?

A: Resilience is influenced by the interaction between individual characteristics and the environment where one has developed.

Q: How is resilience achieved?

A: Resilience is achieved by balancing difficult experiences with positive ones within the family and community.

Q: How can resilience be visualized?

A: Resilience can be visualized as a scale with a fulcrum, influenced by both negative and positive experiences.

Q: What role do genes play in resilience?

A: Genes play a role in determining a child's sensitivity to adverse experiences and can shape the fulcrum of resilience.

Q: How do experiences impact resilience?

A: Experiences can move the fulcrum of resilience, impacting how subsequent events affect an individual positively or negatively.

Q: How do genes respond to environmental situations in relation to resilience?

A: Genes respond differently to various environmental situations, affecting the expression of chemicals and brain circuits that regulate responses to stress and anxiety.

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