PSYC 2610 - Building Resilience: Science and Practice

2 credit hours
We can each benefit from cultivating new skills to handle difficult thoughts, emotions, and situations more constructively. In this course, we will investigate the wealth of scientific research that demonstrates effective ways to advance coping and wellbeing. The course engages a “whole-person” approach towards building resilience by (a) interacting intellectually with scientific material about resilience; (b) practicing new resilience skills in your own life; and (c) applying your learning to the dynamics, systems, and challenges of the wider world. Resilience is a dynamic process that reflects our ability to adapt and thrive when we encounter stress. In this course, you will examine the neurological, cognitive, emotional, behavioral, interpersonal, and contextual factors that contribute to positive coping. You will also consider the extent to which cultural messages about resilience (e.g., “think positive” or “what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger”) are supported or refuted by the research. Together, we will explore ways to reduce vulnerability to difficulties such as depression and anxiety, and address topics related to well-being such as emotion regulation, attention, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, mindfulness, and self-compassion.