Children who experience severe adversities, such as institutionalization and exploitation, often grow up in highly sensitive environments. Despite these challenges, many demonstrate cognitive resilience, adapting to difficult circumstances, solving problems, regulating emotions, and maintaining stability. This study explores the experiences of exploited orphans and the factors contributing to their resilience within institutional care. Using a qualitative approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 children aged 12–16 and analyzed through thematic analysis. Findings reveal that resilience is shaped by problem-solving skills, future orientation, self-regulation, peer support, access to education, and consistent caregiving. Resilience emerged as a dynamic, ecological process influenced by both individual traits and institutional contexts. These insights underscore the need for interventions and policies that strengthen both personal and environmental supports to foster the cognitive and overall development of children in care.
