The article discusses the problem of ecologically valid methods of research resources subject, including the mental, the occurrence of which is associated with the processes of conceptualization of experience. This gives grounds to assert that the characteristics and the internal and external environment play a resource role only when they are assigned a personal significance and value in relation to achieving a positive for the subject results. Analyzes the existing methods of studying of resources, discusses the advantages and limitations of dispositional and typological approaches. It is proposed to use qualitative methods, in particular the phenomenological interviews, analysis of figurative and verbal metaphors. Discusses the results of studies of the mental resources of students (n=42). It is shown that the used methods are allowed: 1) to emphasize the specificity of understanding of the construct of "resource" as a source of strength and opportunities; 2) to identify criteria cognitive appraisal of situations; 3) to describe situations that require the mobilization of resources; 4) to describe a group of mental resources (intellectual, communicative, emotional, motivational).