Citation

Bitsika V, Sharpley CF, Peters K. Ger. J. Psychiatry 2010; 13(1): 9-16.

Affiliation

Brain and Behaviour Research Group, School of Social Sciences, Bond University, Queensland, Australia; Brain and Behaviour Research Group, School of Science and Technology, University of New England, New South Wales, Australia (csharpley@onthenet.com.au)

Copyright

(Copyright © 2010, University of Goettingen)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Aim: To explore the ways in which resilience is associated with anxiety and depression within a homogenous sample.

Methods: 401 Australian university students completed the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale and the Zung Self- rating Anxiety and Depression Scales. Factor scores from the resilience scale were regressed against total anxiety and depression scores, combined anxiety-depression scores and the underlying factors of the combined anxiety-depression construct.

Results: Self-confidence and optimism were most strongly negatively associated with anxiety and depression, followed by being decisive and solution-focused and seeking challenges, having a strong purpose and being persistent, although different combinations of factors predicted anxiety than did depression. Spiritual beliefs did not appear to buffer against anxiety or depression in this sample.

Conclusion: Enhancement of resilience, self-confidence and optimism appear to be major potential targets for therapy intervention with this age and occupation group