Resilience Among Adolescents: A Systematic Review Of Definitions, Protective Factors, And Intervention Strategies

Abstract

Resilience, defined as the dynamic capacity to adapt positively in the face of adversity, trauma, and significant stress, has emerged as a critical construct in adolescent developmental psychology and public health. This systematic review synthesises empirical evidence on resilience among adolescents aged 10–19 years, examining its conceptualisation, measurement, protective factors, and evidence-based interventions. Following PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, a comprehensive search was conducted across four major databases—PsycINFO, PubMed, ERIC, and Web of Science—from January 2000 to December 2023. A total of 36 peer-reviewed studies met the inclusion criteria, representing diverse cultural, geographic, and socioeconomic contexts. Thematic synthesis identified three overarching domains of resilience-promoting factors: individual-level assets (self-efficacy, emotional regulation, problem-solving skills), family-level resources (parental warmth, cohesion, communication quality), and community-level supports (school connectedness, peer relationships, mentoring programmes). Findings reveal significant heterogeneity in resilience measurement instruments and intervention designs, highlighting the need for culturally sensitive, ecologically grounded frameworks. The review underscores the importance of multi-systemic approaches to nurturing resilience and provides actionable recommendations for practitioners, policymakers, and future researchers. Limitations, methodological considerations, and directions for further inquiry are discussed.