Student Wellbeing

Resilience 

Resilience and attachment have a profound influence on our children's journey from infancy through adulthood. In this article I will share how relationships, socioeconomic factors, and the educational systems, provide pathways that foster resilience in our children, empowering them for the challenges and triumphs ahead.

The essence of resilience and attachment

Resilience is defined by toughness and the ability to bounce back quickly from challenges. It involves problem-solving, resourcefulness, and a strong sense of self. In turn, this impacts the way we learn, our physical and mental growth and the development of who we are as people. Interestingly, a child's early bonds with caregivers (known as attachment style) plays a key role in developing resilience. Studies has shown a child's socioeconomic environment can impact their resilience. Those from tougher backgrounds face more obstacles on their physical and mental development. However, resilience offers hope and adaptability as part of God’s design, which in turn provides that pathway for us (adults/caregivers) to help children navigate and overcome such challenges.

Navigating the path: Attachment Theory at play

The work of Mary Ainsworth and John Bowlby on Attachment Theory, discusses the critical role of 'secure-base' relationships in a child's life. These initial bonds, whether with a parent, caregiver, teachers  or mentors, offer a sanctuary of security from which children explore and interact with the world. For secure attachment to occur, sensitivity, respect and attention need to be present.

As children transition into the education system, their teachers become pivotal 'secure-base' figures, extending the attachment framework beyond the home. The quality of interaction within this new setting can significantly impact a child's ability to cultivate resilience, which highlights the vital role educators play in reinforcing positive behaviours and emotional health.

The classroom

Our education systems and classrooms serve as supportive practical spaces for nurturing resilience. Positive, consistent interactions with teachers not only foster academic engagement but also builds the foundational elements of resilience. That is in the context of ‘safe-risk taking’. In other words, “Give it a go! If you fail I will help you understand why and try again.” This development is especially crucial for children from disadvantaged backgrounds, who may face heightened challenges academically, socially, and emotionally.

Yet, education offers more than just knowledge; it is a platform for risk-taking, learning, and growth. By identifying and addressing the unique risks and protective factors in each child's life, educators can tailor interventions that promote resilience, ensuring no child is left behind, regardless of their starting point.

A resilient future

Researchers Shaver and Mikulincer, released an article the study of relationships through the lens of Attachment Theory. They share how past experiences provide a bank of successful responses we have for resilience. Or to say differently, when we interact with, see, hear about, and have moments/examples of resilience, we can learn from them and emulate them in our lives. Shaver and Mikulincer go on to identify that verbal interactions have a lasting impact on our own, and other people's resilience. Talking about challenges, sharing in the burdens, praying together, are all examples of verbal interactions, which therefore, build resilience!

Jesus all for Jesus, all I am and have, and ever hope to be. What a friend we have in Jesus, and the perfect example of resilience to draw from. Not to mention the most steadfast ‘secure-base construct’ we can ever hope for!

As I conclude this article, can I encourage you to speak; to be present; to allow failure and support resilience through perseverance. Can I encourage you to seek out support if you are ever in need. If your child is struggling or you have concerns, please reach out to our wellbeing team. If you would like to request counselling support for your child, you can make a referral on the Wellbeing Support page on the Emmaus Website.

Faith takeaways for resilience:

1. Faith and trust: Jesus exemplified the importance of faith in God and trust in His power and influence in our lives. As a foundation for resilience, it is comforting to know that God is in control, and has a purpose for my life and I can trust in Him. Proverbs 3:5-6
2. Community: Supporting one another, sharing burdens, being a listening ear with kindness and compassion; are all key aspects of a community that develop strong resilience. Galatians 6:2, John 13:34-35 
3. Forgiveness: True forgiveness is liberating. Anger and resentment can hinder personal growth and the recovery from life's great challenges. Forgiveness leads to healing. Ephesians 4:31-32 
4. Learning from trials: I was speaking to a teacher the other day, who shared that the challenges they experienced growing up, have equipped them with the skills for the present. Viewing challenges (event trials and/or suffering), as pathways to growth and strength; bearing the fruit of perseverance- Romans 5:3-4

Jordan Wheatcroft

Student Wellbeing Counsellor