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This study applied the construct of resilience to family systems by looking at ways families are able to maintain high functioning despite facing difficult experiences. A mixed methods study tested relationships between the variables of risk, family strengths, and family functioning. Quantitative findings suggested that the variable of family strengths predicted higher levels of family functioning than the level of family risk. A subsample of 6 families participated in in-depth family interviews. Narrative analysis uncovered the presence of 10 family strengths as well as a process through which these strengths were important in the experience of family resilience. This article presents a model of the process. The quantitative and qualitative research supports the usefulness of identifying and building upon family strengths.

The construct of resilience describes situations in which people overcome negative consequences typically associated with high levels of risk. This study applied the construct of resilience to family systems looking at ways families are able to maintain high functioning despite facing difficult experiences. A mixed methods study was conducted to test relationships between the variables of risk, family strengths, and family functioning. Quantitative findings suggest that families do experience resilience. The variable of family strengths predicted higher levels of family functioning despite the level of risk. The results lend empirical support to the use of strength-building in family practice. Qualitative results and relevance of the entire study are presented in an upcoming second article (Part 2).

Family resilience literature discusses the strengths helpful to families when overcoming adversity. This study looks at the resilience of 15 families whose children were removed due to child maltreatment, but who achieved reunification and maintained improved functioning over time. Qualitative methods guided by the narrative tradition were used to elicit stories of successful reunification. Findings uncovered 10 strengths evaluated by these families as highly influential in their ability to achieve reunification, remain intact, and maintain healthy functioning. Although extensive literature exists regarding barriers to reunification, this research provides understanding regarding successful outcomes from the perspectives of parents. The study also lends support to the applicability of the construct of resilience for families involved in child welfare services.

"The authors begin with an overview how theories are used in social work practice. The book then covers twelve evidence-based theories that are most commonly used by social workers with an undergraduate degree only: ecological & systems theory, strengths perspective, task-centered appraoch, conflict theory, humanistic & client centered, cognitive and behavioral theories, empowerment theory, constructivism, narrative theory, solution focused brief therapy, crisis theory, and critical and feminist theory"--