Family Resiliency from Adversity

I believe society would greatly benefit from resources that would support resilience of adversity when overcoming unstable environments. In the news we see a lot about the Migrant Caravan and how the United States government is unwilling to provide refuge for these people who are in need. While the United States and the Honduran governments differ in resources and conditions, their willingness to help people who are seeking refuge is the same rejection. I wish I knew what the solution would help satisfy all the people involved in this predicament. It is an emotional topic for me to discuss the military involvement because I am an Army veteran, I know what it is like to be given orders that I do not comply with. The racism and discrimination families of not only the immigrants but even the law enforcement, military and civilian by standers in that environment will be impacted.

Ann S. Masten states how resiliency is not something that can be defined objectively because it is influenced by historical and sociocultural context. Highlighting cultural expectations and the environment as contributing factors of adaptive characteristics of individuals. Resiliency varies among cultures and experience, while it may be in some peoples favor to seek haven and leave everything behind to move forward, others would rather stay no matter what the conditions may be and stay strong throughout the struggle. There are many factors to account for when considering resiliency. Factors including who is involved, such as children, family, financial resources, and emotional states. Optimal resiliency would be positive and will empower an individual enough to overcome adversity.

For example, taking into consideration migrating family’s risk of premigration traumas occurring in the home country, traumas in route to the new country, and the often-hostile environment in the new country (Torres, 2018). Torres research highlights the negative health related implications these traumas have on an immigrants physical and mental state rooting from government policies and practices. Experiences with trauma shape children especially, they see the world as a bad place that does not help their family. These personality traits develop their susceptibility or protective in?uence, the physical or sociocultural value and meaning of traits (Masten, 2014). These negative experiences are what lead to maladaptive characteristics like sexual and drug abuse. Those bad habits are what resiliency in an individual could help them overcome.

While international agencies are investing in resources to promote healthy development and resilience, is it enough? It is heartbreaking to know the horrors that are occurring from the California fires, people disappearing, being found dead, losing their homes, and the families who travelled thousands of miles, who would put their life in danger to just try to find refuge. Our society needs resources and the awareness that will help society cope. “There is a need for more knowledge about risk and protective processes and how to prepare for speci?c threats to human development (Masten, 2014).” Reformed policies can facilitate migration and decrease the traumas that individuals and families experience. I don’t believe in pressing people to be religious, but it is something that has help me personally. I think now is the time religion can be a good coping mechanism for those who do believe in hope for a better future.

I believe it is important for society to be resilient and develop positive coping mechanisms in preparation for natural disaster, family separation, violence and many other dangerous situations. I focus on migrating families because it is something that has affected my family directly. I understand that things won’t get better until there are reformed policies that will be implemented but I know I can raise awareness through social media.

References

Masten, A. S. (2014). Global perspectives on resilience in children and youth. Child Development, 85(1), 6–20. https://doi-org.mimas.calstatela.edu/10.1111/cdev.12205

Torres, S. A., Santiago, C. D., Walts, K. K., & Richards, M. H. (2018). Immigration policy, practices, and procedures: The impact on the mental health of Mexican and Central American youth and families.

American Psychologist, 73(7), 843–854. https://doi-org.mimas.calstatela.edu/10.1037/amp0000184

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