Family as a source of risk and resilience among adults with a history of childhood adversity

Abstract

This paper discusses sources of risk and resilience within the family, among adults with a history of childhood adversity in India. While there is some indication that a dysfunctional family environment could pose significant risks, due to the common tendency of viewing the family as an unimpeachable system, general discussions criticizing the family environment are not very popular. This work is part of a larger investigation (N = 1040) on resilience and childhood adversity. These participants were screened for the presence of adversity in childhood and display of resilience in adulthood. 50 individuals (age 17–46) who met the criteria were interviewed and the interviews were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s (2006) thematic analysis guidelines. While 34% of the participants stated that protective factors such as supportive parent-child interactions and cohesion within the family contributed to resilience, 38% reported that family environment was the source of childhood abuse. Distancing oneself from the family of origin was reported as a major coping strategy that facilitated growth and recovery. This research acknowledges a wide range of risk factors within the family that leads to childhood abuse. In a culture that values family relationships immensely, the prospect that this sacred institution can cause harm to an individual is commonly dismissed, to ensure that the social foundation remains intact. More social and legal awareness and a better response system needs to be created to address gaps in research and practice.