Date of Submission

2008

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

Department

Psychology

Department Chair

Robert A. DiTomasso, Ph.D., ABPP

First Advisor

George McCloskey, Ph.D., Chairperson

Second Advisor

Carrie L. Yurica, Psy.D.

Third Advisor

Carrie Champ Morera, Psy.D.

Abstract

Following a comprehensive review of the literature, the present study undertook the development and evaluation of a Resiliency Matrix to assess for the presence of protective and vulnerability factors. The factors, which emerged from the literature review, to promote the expression of resiliency were organized and operationalized into a Resiliency Matrix. Resiliency Matrix Protective Factor Composite scores were evaluated for construct validity through correlations with the Resiliency Scale of the BASC-2 and BASC-2 Depression T-scores, a measure of psychopathology. Resiliency Matrix Protective Factor Composite scores were then evaluated for predictive validity against measures of successful academic and behavioral adjustment to placement at a private residential school. Finally, Resiliency Matrix Protective Factor Composite scores were evaluated through chi-square analyses to determine the efficacy of Low, At-Risk and Average levels of Protective Factor Composites in successfully differentiating between those who pass or fail a major academic course and those who withdraw or those who continue enrollment at the school. Results suggest the Resiliency Matrix demonstrates sufficient construct validity to be considered a valid assessment of resiliency. Initial results of predictive validity did not achieve statistical significance. However, the Resiliency Matrix Protective Factor Composite scores demonstrated stronger correlations with measures of positive adjustment than did WASI IQ or BASC-2 Resiliency T-scores, suggesting the Resiliency Matrix deserves further study and development as an assessment of Resiliency.

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