Power and Possibilities for At-Risk Youth Through Resilience-Building Practices in Physical Education: A Review

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 21
  In Roundtable Session: Student Resilience and Social Emotional Growth

Abstract

Children and youth who demonstrate resiliency find ways to prosper even in the face of negative influences and events. In terms of an educational setting, students who face serious disciplinary actions such as suspension or expulsion are statistically more likely to end up as adults who face incarceration. Therefore, teaching skills that may increase resiliency in at-risk youth warrants investigation. In order to learn about the relationships between resilience and at-risk youth a conceptual review of the literature was conducted. Twenty-nine articles were synthesized to provide some clarity in definitions related to resiliency and at-risk youth. Characteristics often noted in resilient children parallel those taught in mindful practices. To benefit this population, blending mindful practices in Physical Education is proposed.

Authors

• Shannon C. Mulhearn, University of Nebraska - Kearney

• Pamela Hodges Kulinna

• Douglas W. Ellison, Kent State University - Kent