Caregiver Influences on Resilience Development Among Children with Maltreatment Experience: Practitioner Perspectives

Although prior research indicates a link between caregiver characteristics and resilience in maltreated children, the specific ways in which caregivers influence resilience development remain unclear. This study explored practitioner perspectives about the influence of caregivers in the development of resilience among children with maltreatment experience. Individual interviews with 27 practitioners were recorded, transcribed, and analysed. Interview questions included items about practitioner perspectives related to resilience development. Data were analysed using team-based coding. The team developed a codebook, coded all transcripts, and identified salient themes. Three primary themes emerged from the data, including (a) caregiver influence, (b) intervention with caregivers (to promote resilience in maltreated children), and (c) caregiver-related barriers to child resilience. Each theme had two subthemes. Practitioners perceived caregivers to be highly influential on resilience development among maltreated children. Study outcomes can inform future intervention, prevention, and policy development aimed at fostering resilience.