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Are there any negative aspects of developing resilience in childhood?

Presley Shaddick

There is no doubt that developing resilience in childhood is generally considered a positive thing. Resilience can help children to cope with various challenges and difficulties, both in childhood and throughout their lives. However, there are some potential negative aspects of developing resilience that are worth considering.

One possible negative aspect of resilience is that it can lead to a sense of invincibility or overconfidence. When children learn to bounce back from setbacks and to persevere through difficult situations, they may begin to believe that they are capable of handling anything that comes their way. While this confidence can be beneficial in some situations, it can also lead to reckless or careless behavior. Children who feel invincible may take unnecessary risks or fail to take necessary precautions, putting themselves and others in danger.

Another potential negative aspect of resilience is that it may mask underlying problems or issues. When children learn to cope with stress and adversity, they may not always seek out help or support when they need it. This can be especially true if they have been taught to keep their emotions and feelings in check. While resilience can certainly be a strength, it should not be relied upon to the exclusion of seeking needed assistance or treatment.

Resilience can also be challenging in relationships. Children who are taught to be resilient may struggle to show vulnerability or to rely on others for support. This can make it difficult for them to form close relationships or to seek out help when they need it. This can be especially true for boys, who are often socialized to be tough and independent.

Finally, there is some evidence to suggest that overemphasizing resilience can undermine children's developmental needs. When children are expected to be resilient above all else, there is a risk that other important aspects of their development may be neglected. For example, children may feel pressure to focus on achieving at all costs, rather than on building relationships or exploring their interests. This can lead to a narrow focus on achievement that may not be sustainable or fulfilling over the long term.

In conclusion, while there are certainly many positive aspects of developing resilience in childhood, there are also some potential negatives to consider. Children who are taught to be resilient may be prone to overconfidence, may struggle to seek out help when they need it, and may have difficulty forming close relationships. Additionally, an overemphasis on resilience may lead to neglect of other important aspects of development. To truly support children's growth and wellbeing, it is important to strike a balance between building resilience and attending to other developmental needs.