Variables associated with resilience in divorced families

The present study focuses on the salutogenic properties of post-divorce families and attempts to identify factors that promote resilience and family well-being. Within the salutogenic paradigm the focus is on positive characteristics and strengths that contribute towards the growth and development of a system. Family coherence is used as an indication of the level of recovery after the crisis, and is used as the dependent measure with regard to the present well-being of the family. A cross-sectional survey research design was used. The 98 participating families were identified on the grounds of the nature of the crisis ( divorce) and the developmental phase of the family. An open-ended question and the following self-report questionnaires were completed by the parent and a child: a biographical questionnaire, the Relative and Friend Support Index, the Social Support Index, Family Crises Oriented Personal Evaluation Scales, Family Sense of Coherence Scale, and the Family Hardiness Index. Results show that intra-family support, support of the extended family, support of friends, religion, open communication amongst family members, and work and financial security were factors promoting resilience in these families.