WHAT IS RESILIENCE?
Resilience is defined, by some researchers, as demonstrated competence in the context
of significant challenges to adaptation (Masten & Coatsworth, 1998). Resilience is a concept
filled with hope and optimism. Yet, resilience is not invulnerability. There is a need
for caution to contain assumptions that resilience is a trait that all children possess, or that
it is an automatic outcome for children. Children can develop areas of resilience in their
lives when they are protected by the positive actions of adults, by good nurturing, by their
assets, and by policies and practices that support their healthy development and reduce
risk across key systems (family, legal, judicial, educational, and community) that affect
their lives.
This article highlights the important role that evidence-based preventive interventions
play in reducing the negative effects of divorce on children. A risk and resilience model is
used to understand some of the individual child characteristics that are associated with
better adjustment, and to provide guidelines for the content of children’s programs. The
Children of Divorce Intervention Program (CODIP) is described in greater detail as an
example of an evidence-based program that can be modified to a variety of settings, including
court-connected services for children.