How is resilience best defined in terms of psychological responses to stress?

Resilience is best defined as the process of adapting well in the face of adversity. This concept emphasizes the dynamic nature of resilience, wherein individuals demonstrate the capability to cope with challenges, setbacks, and stress in a manner that allows for recovery and growth. It involves not just enduring difficult situations, but actively engaging with them and employing effective strategies to manage stress and emerge stronger.

This definition encapsulates the reality that resilience is not an innate trait but rather a set of skills and behaviors that can be developed over time. Individuals who practice resilience can leverage their experiences, learn from failures, and continue to pursue their goals despite hardship. This proactive adaptation highlights the importance of mental flexibility and resourcefulness in overcoming life's obstacles, which is central to the idea of resilience.