What is resilience theory in social work?
Resiliency focuses attention on positive contextual, social, and individual variables that interfere or disrupt developmental trajectories from risk to problem behaviors, mental distress, and poor health outcomes.
What theories support resilience?
In the protective factor model of resilience, there is an interaction between protection and risk factors, which reduces the probability of a negative outcome and moderates the effect of exposure to risk (O’Leary, 1998). This model of resilience is derived from developmental literature and systems theory.
Why is resilience important in social work?
There is evidence that emotional resilience can not only protect social workers from the adverse effects of work-related stress but also help you flourish in the profession and ensure the best possible outcomes for service users.
Where does resilience theory come from?
The roots of resilience studies can be traced back to half a century ago when psychologists studied the outcomes of children who were at high risk for psychopathology. Among these children, a subgroup of them did not develop any psychopathological disorder and grew up with surprisingly healthy patterns.
How do social workers apply for resilience?
Resilience techniques:
- enhancing skills in emotional intelligence, reflective practice, social awareness and empathetic skills.
- stress management techniques such as relaxation and time management skills.
- reflective thinking skills.
- writing a reflective diary.
- using supervision for reflective practice.
- social skills.
Who developed resilience theory?
Dr Norman Garmezy
Dr Norman Garmezy was a clinical psychologist and is often noted as being the founder of research in resilience. His research began with a focus on schizophrenia and mental illness and shifted to research on stress resistance, competence and resilience.