Adolescent aggression: Models of resiliency

Resiliency is the ability to survive and thrive despite exposure to negative circumstances. This study compared 4 models of resiliency (compensatory, risk-protective, protective-protective. and challenge) in the context of adolescent aggression. Each model proposes a different relationship between risk and protective factors. The risk factor was exposure to violence. Protective factors were closeness to an adult, importance of religion, self-esteem, relationship competence, constructive communication, and constructive anger. Data for testing the models came from a survey of 1,747 8th and 9th graders in a rural county. Results suggest that the most appropriate model of resiliency varies by gender of the adolescent. The protective-protective and challenge models were supported for females. None of the models were supported for males. Gender differences in socialization and development may explain study findings.