#10: Can I boost my child's resilience?
with Idia Thurston Ph.D.
In this episode we discuss…
the definition of resilience
how it is not only a fixed trait, but also influenced by one’s relationships, communities, and resources
how parents can help boost their children’s resilience
how resilience improves psychological, social, and behavioral health of youth
how parent-child interactions play a central role in resilience
the 5 Cs of Resilience
how parents can help children build competence
how parents can help children build confidence in their own abilities
why parents should model positive bonds to friends, family, school, and community
how parents can provide opportunities for children to build their own social supports
how parents can help create opportunities for children to practice self-control, and cultivate a connection to a higher purpose
how to stay connected to our kids even when they are pushing us away
Psychologist Dr. Idia Thurston joins us for a conversation about the science of resilience and shares how it is protective against negative body image and weight stigma. She teaches us how to build this critical skill so parents can actively help their children fully bloom.
Get our guide to body-positive parenting, including the page for this podcast episode.
Dr. Idia Thurston is a licensed clinical psychologist and assistant professor of psychology at the University of Memphis, as well as an adjunct assistant professor of pediatrics at University of Tennessee Health Science Center. She received her doctorate from University of South Florida and postdoctoral training from Boston Children’s Hospital/Harvard Medical School. Dr. Thurston directs the CHANGE (Challenging Health disparities in Adolescents and Nurturing Global Empowerment) lab, where she leads undergraduate and graduate scholars in conducting health equity research. Her research program is framed by an academic feminist lens to explore how intersectional identities of race, class, gender, and sexuality influence health and well-being. Dr. Thurston prioritizes collaborations with community partners to decrease health disparities and promote cultural humility. She has published over 35 peer-reviewed articles on topics of HIV, Obesity, mental health, and training underrepresented minorities. Dr. Thurston has received grants and awards from the National Institutes of Health, The Obesity Society, and Sister Reach. She develops culturally-responsive tools and programs to reduce stigma and promote resilience in children, adolescents, and families. Dr. Thurston strives to disseminate her health promotion initiatives to all stakeholders while influencing the next generation of scholars via holistic mentoring.
Connect with Dr. Thurston on her website.