“I take up more responsibilities for my family's wellbeing” − A qualitative approach to the cultural aspects of resilience seen among young adults in Bengaluru, India

• The cultural-specific factors contributing to resilience among at-risk young adults are:.
• Family as a source of strength and support.
• Maintaining family cohesion in times of adversity.
• Fulfilling societal obligations and responsibilities.
• Connectedness with the larger community especially in rural India.
• Participation in religious rituals and spirituality.

Resilience refers to the pursuit of positive in the face of adversity. The present study using qualitative methods aimed to identify culture-specific factors linked to resilience. Participants, (N = 31, aged 16−24 years) whose parents were being treated for chronic medical conditions or psychiatric disorders at St John's Medical College Hospital, Bengaluru, were studied using Focused group discussion and In-depth interviews. Using the ‘Grounded theory’ approach, two major themes were identified as important factors influencing resilience: (1) Family and socially defined roles/responsibilities and in particular adherence to traditionally defined social responsibilities. (2) Participation in rituals and experiencing spirituality. Application and relevance of these themes in promoting resilience among young vulnerable adults are discussed.