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Instructor/Advisor

Jonathan P. Kessler, LICSW, SAC

Abstract

Addiction and recovery affect not only the individual but also the entire family, often causing stress and emotional challenges for children. Despite these difficulties, some children develop survival skills that help them build resilience. Parental recovery can influence family dynamics, emotional stability, and children’s ability to cope and thrive. This systematic literature review explores the experiences that shape resilience in children aged three to nine. A comprehensive literature search using keywords and subject headings was conducted, yielding 20 empirical studies that met the identified inclusion criteria for this study. The review highlights key survival skills such as emotional regulation, self-esteem, problem-solving, adaptability, and empathy. It emphasizes the connection between a parent's recovery and a child's ability to thrive, stressing the importance of stable caregiving, supportive environments, and targeted therapeutic interventions. The findings suggest that strengthening family relationships and expanding access to family-centered therapy can promote resilience and reduce the risk of future substance misuse.

Breaking the Cycle: Resilience in Children of Recovering Parents

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