ABSTRACT
In this chapter, I will discuss further the different aspects of critical resilience and critical thriving based on our work; specifically, their characteristics of awareness of societal oppression and desire to give back to or improve or “pay forward” to society despite this awareness. I will also discuss the theoretical tenets on which these concepts are based, including critical psychology, liberation psychology, and feminist psychology. Examples from our studies will be given to illustrate, in the participants’ own words, the desires and occurrence of this type of giving back. Relevant subthemes that help explain the occurrence of critical resilience and thriving, such as cultural values and community support, are also discussed.
