While COSAs are more likely than others to develop problems, the vast majority do not. While most COSAs will not achieve this same level of national recognition, the majority of children of alcoholics and other substance abusers are resilient. As a professional, there is much you can do to encourage and promote resiliency . Traditionally, as a society, we have tended to focus more on deficits and damages than strengths.
Resiliency flips the coin.
It is also about succeeding in life. What is resilient in one situation may be maladaptive in another. The ability to separate emotionally and physically from one's troubled parents. The ability to develop fulfilling relationships with others to fulfill personal needs. The ability to take charge of personal problems, be productive and set goals, or an interest in testing oneself in demanding tasks.