Research on resilience to child maltreatment: empirical considerations

Abstract

Objective: To review the current research literature on resilience to maltreatment in childhood and adolescence.

Method: First, this paper addresses the methodological issues applicable to this area of research. Second, it reviews the empirical literature on the protective factors believed to contribute to resilience to maltreatment and offers commentary on specific issues raised in each study.

Results: The current findings are summarized and an integrated descriptive picture, based on the extant literature of the processes and factors contributing to the development of resilience to childhood maltreatment is outlined.

Conclusion: Based on this extensive review and critique of the current empirical literature on resilience to maltreatment, suggestions for future investigations in this area are recommended.