Which characteristic is essential for resilience in children according to Child and Youth Care principles?

Social competence is a critical characteristic for resilience in children according to Child and Youth Care principles. It encompasses a child's ability to interact effectively with others, form positive relationships, and navigate social environments successfully. Children who exhibit social competence are better equipped to seek support from peers and adults, communicate their feelings, and cope with challenges that arise in their relationships.

Having strong social skills can help children build a supportive network, which is vital for resilience. They can share experiences, seek help, and collaborate with others to overcome difficulties. This emotional and social support contributes to a child’s ability to bounce back from adversity and enhances overall mental health.

In contrast, independence, adherence to rules, and standardized testing do not directly correlate with resilience in the same way. While independence is important for personal growth, it can sometimes lead to isolation, which may hinder a child's ability to seek support. Adherence to rules is more about compliance than building interpersonal relationships, and standardized testing typically emphasizes academic performance rather than emotional or social development, making it less relevant to the cultivation of resilience.