Unravelling: A Study to Explore the Intricate Relationship Between Problem Behaviors and Resilience in Youth

Abstract

Problem behaviors among youth have a negative impact and understanding factors that contribute to counteract these behaviors is crucial for promoting positive youth development and preventing negative outcomes. One such factor is Resilience, or the ability to adapt to stress and adversity. The present study investigates the relationship between problem behaviors and resilience in postgraduate students aged 22-24 years using Wagnild and Young Resilience Scale and Achenbach System of Empirically Based Assessment-Adult Self-Report (ASEBA-ASR). The results indicated that 75.6% of participants had clinical levels of problem behaviors while 5.6% showed borderline levels of problem behaviors. Chi-square tests also showed significant associations between gender (p< 0.027), education (p<0.046), total monthly income of subjects’ family (p<0.058), and residence (p<0.017) with levels of overall Resilience. Results further showed a negative correlation between resilience and problem behaviors, including both externalizing (p<0.000; r=-.407) and internalizing behaviors (p<0.000; r=-.472).