Bolster resources of youth academic resilience

Abstract

The concept of resilience is part of the research and pragmatic efforts of prevention science, and concerns the question of positive adaptation and successful functioning despite the risks and difficult circumstances. Academic resilience is thus a specific form of resilience related to achieving academic success in spite of risk exposure. The purpose of this research was to describe the resources which bolster academic resilience through implementing a qualitative research approach. A focus group with nine young people over the age of 20 was applied. The data were transcribed and processed through the thematic data analysis (Braun & Clarke, 2006). Identified themes show that the resources for bolstering academic resilience of youth are part of a resource model that recognizes two important forms. The first is risk awareness and rational approach to risk, while another is a proactive approach to overcoming the risk. This proactivity is recognized by activating one’s own strengths and abilities, relying on the support of significant others, and the application of relaxation activities.