What the study found
The study found a two-part resilience framework among South Korean adolescents experiencing parental incarceration. Participants used individual coping strategies, relied mainly on family support—especially grandparents—and also showed personal growth, future orientation, and motivation linked to filial piety, a cultural value emphasizing duty to family.
Why the authors say this matters
The authors conclude that the findings challenge Western-centric resilience models by showing that resilience can develop through family relationships and cultural obligations rather than only through individual autonomy. They also suggest the findings point to a need for culturally sensitive, family-centred interventions that build on existing strengths.
What the researchers tested
The researchers explored resilience processes among South Korean adolescents living with parental incarceration in a stigmatizing social environment. They conducted semi-structured interviews with 14 adolescents ages 14 to 18 and analysed the data using constant comparative methods.
What worked and what didn't
The adolescents described individual strategies such as positive disassociation and constructive distraction as part of a 'coping arena.' Family support was central, with grandparents especially important, while social support outside the family was limited. The abstract also reports that collectivistic values created vulnerability through stigma but also provided motivations for adaptation.
What to keep in mind
The summary available here describes a small qualitative study of 14 adolescents in South Korea, so the findings are based on interviews rather than broader measurement. The abstract does not describe other limitations.
Key points
- The study identified a two-part resilience framework among South Korean adolescents with incarcerated parents.
- Family support, especially from grandparents, was the main source of support described by participants.
- Participants also reported limited support from people outside the family.
- The abstract links resilience to personal growth, future orientation, and filial piety.
- The authors say the findings challenge Western-centric resilience models.
Disclosure
- Research title:
- Korean youth facing parental incarceration show resilience through family ties
- Authors:
- Ji Sun Lee, Jung Hee Lee, Jung Hee Lee, Jung Hee Lee, Lina Cui, Ki Myung Han
- Institutions:
- Ewha Womans University, Ewha Womans University, Ewha Womans University, Fort Hays State University, Fort Hays State University, Korea Disabled People s Development Institute
- Publication date:
- 2026-06-28
- DOI:
- 10.1111/cfs.70215
- OpenAlex record:
- View
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