Community Resilience: A Case Study of a Community of Fortaleza, CE

Abstract

The study aims to understand community resilience processes (CR) and their related factors, through a case study of a community in Fortaleza, CE, which originated from an urban occupation and was characterized by low social indicators. A single case study was performed, based on the Ecological Insertion and on 10 interviews conducted with community leaders and inhabitants. The data were submitted to Content Analysis and two categories of analysis were identifi ed: adversities experienced and factors that favor community resilience. The main adversities relate to structural diffi culties, violence and stigma from violence associated with the location. CR processes are illustrated in the community struggles for basic rights and are based on the following factors: social capital, cultural ties and the infrastructure that supports the growth of the community. This demonstrates the relevance of the concept of CR in the study of adversities, such as poverty and violence, which are historically less emphasized in studies concerning CR, even though these are the most chronic and frequent within the Brazilian context.

Development and validation of a Community Resilience Scale for Youth (CRS-Y)

“…The scale makes it possible to reflect on aspects of resilient communities which are relevant for youth development: community competence [ 13 ], visible in the ability to anticipate and consciously shape a collective focus and collective action; social capital [ 13 , 64 , 84 ], visible in social support, networking, community participation and mutual trust [ 42 , 83 ]; and engagement and cultural ties [ 64 ], as aspects related to collective self-esteem and cultural identities [ 13 ].…”

“…A resilient community has shared commitments and values, sometimes based on emotional dimensions or interests [63]. Aspects such as an appreciation of cultural identity can foster a sense of belonging [64], and a collective way of thinking [83] can strengthen the resilience of a community.…”

Attachment resilience in practice: The essential role of family keyworkers

“…The complex way in which resilience is conceived as an ecological and systemic phenomenon is well‐suited to emphasize that resilience should not focus solely on the individual level but also on creating favorable environments and support systems that enable people to deal with adversity effectively. Recognizing and strengthening resources at multiple levels, including individual, family, community, and cultural factors, emphasize the interconnection between systems and the need for integrated approaches to promoting well‐being in different life contexts (Oliveira & Morais, 2019; Ungar, 2008, 2021; Walsh, 2021).…”