Moving from Traits to the Dynamic Process: The Next Steps in Research on Human Resilience

Authors

Yannick Hill, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Michael L. Dolezal, University of Colorado, Colorado Springs
Patric C. Nordbeck, Lund University
Ruud J. R. Den Hartigh, University of Groningen
David Pincus, Chapman UniversityFollow
Adam W. Kiefer, University of North Carolina at Chapel HillFollow
Bernard P. Ricca, University of Colorado, Colorado Springs

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

11-20-2024

Abstract

The current literature on resilience shows a trend toward a dynamic process conceptualization, moving away from the previous trait-approach. However, the term “dynamic” is increasingly treated as a buzzword and is thereby oversimplified in the literature. The aim of this article is to develop a unified language pertaining to resilience as a dynamic process, so as to ensure progress in this field. First, we briefly introduce the traditional trait approach alongside the implicit assumption on which it is built. Next, we contrast this approach by discussing what dynamics entail and how this approach differs from mainstream psychological approaches. Specifically, dynamics argue for mapping out a change process per se, rather than identifying whether or not a change has occurred through simple linear fit models. These dynamic processes typically emerge from complex interactions between multiple variables, which result in nonlinear patterns like sudden gains or losses. Consequently, we advocate for future research avenues built on repeated measurements at high frequencies that result time series data which provides insights into how the resilience process unfolds over time. Gaining insights into such temporal patterns also has a direct influence on practical applications including approaches for both prevention and psychotherapy.

Comments

This article was originally published in Journal of Aggression, Maltreatment & Trauma in 2024. https://doi.org/10.1080/10926771.2024.2431733

Recommended Citation

Hill, Y., Dolezal, M. L., Nordbeck, P. C., Den Hartigh, R. J. R., Pincus, D., Kiefer, A. W., & Ricca, B. P. (2024). Moving from traits to the dynamic process: The next steps in research on human resilience. Journal of Aggression, Maltreatment & Trauma. https://doi.org/10.1080/10926771.2024.2431733

Copyright

The authors

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.