Resilience, the ability to cope with crises, has become a key concept in positive psychology. As a skill that can be learned, it is often presented as a universal solution to personal and social challenges. However, the emphasis on individual resilience also harbours risks: it can mask structural problems and social inequalities, individualize responsibility and push collective solutions into the background. In addition, the concept could reinforce existing power relations by promoting adaptation rather than change.

In her presentation, Prof. Dr. Karina Becker will critically examine the normative aspects of the resilience discourse, focusing in particular on occupational health and safety. Alternative perspectives for a balanced view of personal and social coping strategies will be discussed.