Socioemotional Factors Associated with Resilience in Conflict-Affected Colombian Children and Adolescents: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract The rise in mental health issues among youth in Colombia is a critical public health concern. This study examined factors associated with baseline resilience in 4,361 children and adolescents participating in the “Conmigo, Contigo, Con Todos” program across three conflict-affected Colombian departments (Amazonas, Boyacá, Vaupés). This cross-sectional study analyzed participants aged 8–17 years from 56 schools. Resilience was measured using the CD-RISC. Socioemotional competencies were assessed using validated instruments. Due to systematic missing data in children's mental health screenings, complete-case multivariable linear regression (supported by multiple imputation sensitivity analyses) evaluated associations between resilience and sociodemographic, emotional, and familial factors. Male gender identity (β = 3.46), compassion (β = 0.35), and prosocial behavior (β = 0.38) were associated with higher resilience. Family dynamics emerged as robust correlates; youth "very satisfied" with family relationships showed significantly higher resilience (β = 8.26) versus those dissatisfied. Crucially, an absolute lack of perceived family support ("never") was associated with a severe reduction in resilience (β = -9.56) compared to youth who "almost never" felt supported. Geographic disparities were significant; residence in Vaupés correlated with lower resilience (β = -4.75) than Boyacá. Positive family dynamics are profoundly associated with higher baseline resilience in conflict-affected youth, whereas an absolute lack of support constitutes a severe vulnerability. Place-based disparities highlight the intersection of structural inequity and adaptation, emphasizing the necessity for culturally responsive interventions and longitudinal research.