Human Development and Adversity in Ecological Perspective,Part 2: Three Patterns

Abstract

This article, part 2 of a study that sought to delineate processes leading to good and poor outcomes among individuals who have experienced childhood adversities, uses a life-history interview method to report on three patterns of development found under conditions of adversity: the model of the wounded well, a social-deficits model, and a social-assets model. Some major developmental processes that distinguished those who turned out well from those who did not turn out well were long-term, close personal relationships with peers and adults who modeled prosocial behaviors and values; emotional expressiveness and responsiveness to others; and feeling part of and at home with something outside themselves. This research demonstrates the importance of increasing protective factors and decreasing risk processes.