From the perspective of character traits, resilience is seen as an inherent quality of the individual. This view suggests that resilience is a stable, enduring feature of personality that enables a person to handle stress and adversity more effectively. In other words, some people are just naturally more resilient than others.
This view of resilience has been criticised for its tendency to overlook the role of external factors, such as social support and environmental conditions, in shaping an individual’s ability to cope with adversity. It also needs to consider that resilience can be learned and developed over time through deliberate practice and intervention.

The alternative view of resilience sees it as a function of supportive social bonds. According to this perspective, resilience is not just an individual characteristic but is shaped by the quality and quantity of social relationships an individual has. In other words, resilient individuals are not necessarily born with this trait but develop it through exposure to family and social interactions that cultivate endurance and adaptability.
The importance of social support in fostering resilience has been well documented in the psychological literature. Research suggests that people with strong family and social support networks can better cope with stress and are more resilient in the face of adversity. This is because social support can provide a range of resources, including emotional support, practical assistance, and guidance, that can help individuals to manage difficult situations and overcome obstacles.

Regardless of whether one views resilience as a character trait or a function of social bonds, there are several strategies that individuals can use to develop and enhance their ability to cope with adversity.

As discussed above, social support is a critical component of resilience. Therefore, it is important to cultivate and maintain strong relationships with family, friends, and those who can provide emotional and practical assistance when needed.

Taking care of oneself is essential for maintaining resilience. This includes activities that promote physical and emotional well-being, such as regular exercise, healthy eating, and stress-reducing practices like meditation. All these activities are more feasible when we have the support of family and friends encouraging us to look after ourselves.

Being able to identify and solve problems is an important aspect of resilience. Many of us give up or fail because we need to break down complex or daunting problems into more manageable pieces. Doing so can help us brainstorm solutions and test them to learn what works best. Again, relying on the support of others in the problem-solving process gives us access to crucial new perspectives, advice, and resources.

Resilient people tend to focus on their strengths, abilities, and opportunities. They admit that there are challenges to overcome but maintain a sense of hope and optimism in the face of adversity. Most of us need help from a good friend, family member or therapist to stay focused on our strengths and possibilities. In that sense, positive thinking is a collective effort.

Psychologists who view resilience as a function of healthy social bonds may use family therapy to help you understand the interactions and dynamics within your family system and how they affect your resilience. Family therapy aims to improve communication between family members and helps them build resilience by fostering a sense of connection and support. When family members feel heard and understood, they are more likely to feel capable of persevering in difficult situations. Therapy sessions provide a safe space for families to express their emotions and address conflicts constructively.
Family therapy also promotes a sense of empowerment and self-efficacy within families. When families can work together to overcome challenges, they develop a sense of confidence in their abilities. By focusing on the strengths and resources within the family system, psychologists can help families develop the skills they need to navigate the ups and downs of life.