The art of resilience : a mixed methods investigation into the factors and processes that influence young women’s resilience in New Delhi, India.

Abstract

Resilience is a widely researched phenomenon. It is understood as ‘a dynamic process encompassing positive adaptation within the context of significant adversity’ (Luthar et al, 2000, p.543) and is characterised by a complex interplay of personal, relational, and contextual protective factors (e.g., Cicchetti, 2010; Masten, 2001, Rutter, 1987; Ungar, 2011a). Despite not being explicitly outlined, psychological resilience is integral for achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDGs) 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and 5 (Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment) by 2030. However, there is little understanding of the specific factors that contribute to women and girls’ resilience, and the broader processes that mould them, particularly in complex societies where patriarchy dominates (Liebenberg & Ungar, 2009). This research study adopts a mixed methods approach to illuminate young women’s narratives of resilience in the context of an all-female college in New Delhi, India. It applies Ungar (2011a)’s Socio-Ecological Resilience (SER) theory to identify the protective factors that are promotive of resilience, and the influence of the wider socio-cultural context in shaping them. The main findings suggest that young women prioritise numerous individual and relational protective factors that facilitate the resilience process. Those with an internal locus of control are more likely to have access to a greater variety of protective factors. Resilience should be considered more than a predictable set of universally defined protective factors and outcomes as specific socio-cultural contexts hold significant influence in enabling and/or inhibiting young women’s access to protective resources. Overall, the findings reveal a culturally sensitive understanding of young women’s resilience in New Delhi, India. This can work towards advancing resilience theory and informing relevant resilience-building interventions. The findings can help to accelerate India’s progress towards achieving SDG 3 & 5 by 2030 and spotlight the importance of women’s resilience in the post-2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.