Pathways to Resilience IV: Global South Perspectives

Researching Pathways to Resilience 

Abstract #148
Title: A prospective study of mediation processes of the protective effects of resilience using the Resilience Scale for Adolescents (READ)
Presenter: Odin Hjemdal (NTNU, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Norway)
Co-Author: Tore Aune
Introduction: In order to better understand mental health it is important to teasing out a more profound understanding of the processes involved in mental health and its preservation namely the resilience processes. Newer statistical methods allow more advanced exploration of processes.
Methods: One thousand four hundred and seventy-two adolescents completed the Short Mood and Feeling Questionnaire, Stressful Life Events, SPAC-I and Resiliience Scale for Adolescents (READ). Mediation analysis with maximum likelihood estimation in Stata 14 was conducted.  The findings indicate that resilience mediates the relation between anxiety and depressive symptoms dependent on the level of Stressful Life Events.
Findings: These findings indicate that the established relation between anxiety and depressive symptoms are affected levels of resilience. Resilience as such is an important mediator that has to be taken into account to further understand the interplay between mental health, stress, disorders and resilience. 

Abstract #162
Title: Cross-cultural investigation of the Resilience Framework: Q-methodology
Presenter: Rhian Adams (University of Brighton, UK)
Co-Authors: Suna Eryigit-Madzwamuse, Amalia Madihie, Emel Teksoz, Angie Hart
Introduction: The Resilience Framework (RF), developed by Prof A. Hart and colleagues, is a strategic approach that identifies comprehensive and ecological resilience building mechanisms. This study aims to investigate the RF’s cross-cultural adaptation exploring how it operates similarly or differently across diverse cultures.  
Methods: This study utilities q-methodology. Q-methodology is a rigorous method to refine models such as the RF. A set of statements from RF were generated in collaboration with academics, field workers and young people. Data collection is currently in progress and is due to finish in January 2017. Participating young people (age range 10-16, n= 100 from each country) from Malaysia, Turkey and UK sort the 43 statements in a forced distribution ranging from most agree to most disagree. Data analysis will include correlation and by-person factor analysis based on similarities and differences between individual sorts.
Findings: The results of this study will be shared in this presentation. The findings will help to refine the RF in the light of empirical evidence and contextual diversity identifying generalizable versus culture specific aspects of the RF across Western (UK) and non-Western (Malaysia and Turkey). 

Abstract #99
Title: Peer Support, Quality of Life and Resilience: A Systematic Literature Review
Presenter: Mirika Flegg (University of Brighton, UK)
Introduction: Involving those with ‘lived-experience’ in the design, development and delivery of services to their peers has increasingly been evidenced across mental health service provisions. Research suggests Peer Support may increase resilience in these populations, however further evidence is required to identify how these interventions affects patient outcomes.
Methods: Aiming to address the gaps in current research, this literature review sought to critically evaluate the impact of peer support interventions on Quality of Life outcomes and understand if the variation in impact can be explained through the variations in descriptors and approaches associated with peer support. It adopts a method of a systematic approach and evaluates randomised control trials of peer support that include follow-up data to assess the impact of the intervention over time and relative to controls.  Potential moderators that may hinder the ability of peer support to build resilience are identified and discussed.
Findings: Five out of six papers showed a positive impact on Quality of Life, however one showed negative effects.  Findings suggest collaborative service and research practices may improve the effectiveness of peer support interventions.  It advocates a social justice view to consider the relationship between peer support, stigma and resilience.