Social and Emotional Resilience

Abstract

Young people undergo continual changes affecting all aspects of their lives—social, cognitive, emotional and physical. The transition into young adulthood may present challenges for some and the need to develop social and emotional resilience to cope with these is crucial. Social and emotional wellbeing refers to the way a person thinks and feels about themselves and others. It includes being able to adapt and deal with daily challenges, which incorporate the need to be resilient and have a range of coping skills, while living a life of purpose and fulfilment. An emphasis on the behavioural and emotional strengths of young people, as well as how they respond to adversity or challenging situations. These competencies provide resilience against stressors of cyberbullying and help to prevent behavioural and emotional difficulties developing later in life. Research has found building social and emotional resilience in children and young people is crucial in dealing with cyberbullying. It is commonly viewed that protective factors assist in building resilience. Young people need to be taught coping strategies early as they immerse themselves in the online world. They are exposed to imagery and behaviour they may not experience so early in the offline world therefore building resilience in children and young people strengthens their ability to cope with negative online experiences such as cyberbullying.