This study explores, identifies, and clarifies the role that familial capabilities, characteristics, and resources (resilience factors) play in cushioning the effect of migration on the family unit. A total of 68 White middle and upper socioeconomic South African families completed the questionnaires, which included an open-ended question. The results identified (i) traits and abilities of individual family members, (ii) the family system 1/4s internal resources and support, (iii) familial integration and stability, (iv) the family unit 1/4s utilization of its internal strengths and durability to manage problems outside of its boundaries, (v) social support, and (vi) a passive appraisal coping style in the midst of the crisis as important resilience-enhancing resources. The results could be used to develop effective intervention programmes that may prevent adaptation problems, promote family resilience, and affirm the reparative potential of families. Copyright © 2007 Wolters Kluwer Health | Lippincott Williams and Wilkins.

Resilience Migration Family

psychological aspect human Life Change Events middle aged life event Adaptation, Psychological social support family size Family Characteristics Cross-Sectional Studies South Africa cross-sectional study family Humans male female Socioeconomic Factors adaptive behavior socioeconomics Article migration Transients and Migrants