Fig. 2. This schematic shows how tempering and fortification stabilise structures (representing neurobiological and psychosocial processes) that were destabilised by adversity.

Tempering involves redistribution of pre-existing resources to enhance functioning, but this redistribution may create brittleness or weaknesses in some structures while strengthening others within stress-responsive systems. This may, on occasion, inadvertently destabilise structures. To strengthen these functions and eliminate or diminish weaknesses, acquisition and addition of new resources is required, through a fortification process.