Overcoming Social Adversities and Resilience Building in RJ Palacio’s Wonder

Abstract

This study aimed to create a module to uplift self-worth using R. J. Palacio’s “Wonder”, with reference to the social adversities experienced by the characters, description of the characters based on the identified adversities, how these accounts of social adversities influence the characters, and the coping mechanisms utilized by the characters to become resilient. The major literary approaches to literary criticism utilized to analyze the novel in this study are psychological, sociological, and formalistic approaches. Since the novel focuses on relationships and behavior of people, the psychological approach was used. On the other hand, the sociological approach was used to determine the relationship between the work of literature and society. Lastly, the use of a formalistic approach was used to stress that art is artificial and that a great deal of acquired skill goes into it instead of the old classical maxim that real art conceals its art.  The findings present the social adversities found in the novel in terms of familial challenges, jealousy, bullying, academic challenges, and social acceptance. August, as the main character, despite his physical defects is a confident. unique child amidst social adversities. Social adversities’ influence to the characters in terms of personal values, relationships, and discernment. To cope up with the social adversities they experienced, they utilized projection of strong personality, habituation and neglect, avoidance, self-isolation, gaining independence, maintaining positive disposition and perspective, seeking and establishing support, and problem-solving. The module was designed to help learners be familiar and aware of these adversities and help them appreciate themselves more and uplift their value of self-worth.