Toward a Model of Military Family Resiliency: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Over the years, the construct of resilience has been increasing in complexity, indicated by the lack of consensus in its definition, operationalization, and measurement. Resiliency in military families is of particular interest given the nature of military life. A narrative review explored and synthesized how resilience and resiliency are understood in the military family literature. Twenty references were identified and underwent a detailed data extraction process focused on descriptions of resilience. Five themes were identified: the difference between resilience and resiliency, intrafamilial factors, processes that enhance military family resiliency, the role of context, and family–context interactions. These themes have informed the development of a synthesis of models of family resiliency that can reveal areas of vital significance for military families and serve as an important starting point to inform ongoing research and theory development for this population.

Resilient Parents… Resilient Communities: A Pilot Study Trialing the Bounce Back and Thrive! Resilience-Training Program With Military Families

“…As the backbone of the CAF, CMFs need to be resilient. Exposure to military-related stressors with adequate resources and skills can allow them to prepare for and thrive in CMF-life ( Cramm et al, 2018 ). Enabling adults to model resilience to children can foster collective well-being, confidence, and resilience.…”

“…Enabling adults to model resilience to children can foster collective well-being, confidence, and resilience. Further, family support and training encourage development of resilience in children 0–8 years during a critical developmental period where families face increased vulnerabilities due to environmental stresses ( Cramm et al, 2018 ). A service gap, however, exists regarding evidence-based programs available through MFRCs that facilitate resilience-building for CMFs.…”

“…Regrettably, concerns of a domestic nature can interfere with SMs’ ability to focus, potentially compromising themselves, their unit and the mission. Resilience-training may enhance CMF resilience and ability to manage military-specific circumstances including mobility, absence/separation, and risk of injury or death) ( Cramm et al, 2018 ; Manser, 2020c ), mental health, financial and relational challenges, and realities of relocation [e.g., housing, employment, child-care ( Battams and Mann, 2018 ), academic and social challenges ( Manser, 2018b )].…”

“…While most CMFs are well-supported and resilient, approximately 10% reportedly struggle ( Manser, 2018c , 2020b ). Constraints related to military life CMF may impact coping abilities ( Meadows et al, 2016 ; Cramm et al, 2018 ) and contribute to the development of cumulative or prolonged stressors which heighten the risk of family disruption and poor outcomes ( Walsh, 2016 ; Manser, 2018c ). Facilitative environments, including formal and informal supports, are central to developing and maintaining resilience ( Ungar, 2013 ).…”

“…Conversely, strong family belief systems, organizational patterns, support systems, and communication and problem sharing can prevent disruption and strengthen family resilience ( Meadows et al, 2016 ; Walsh, 2016 ) and have long-standing and intergenerational impacts. Stress tolerance or management may vary between individual family members, allowing for the strengths and vulnerabilities of each member to impact the family ( Cramm et al, 2018 ). This is highly impactful in families who experience regular separations and reunifications.…”