Traumatic loss and posttraumatic growth: the effect of traumatic loss related factors on posttraumatic growth

Abstract

Objective: The present study aimed to investigate the experience of posttraumatic growth (PTG) in bereaved individuals. The contributory role of traumatic loss related factors in the development of PTG were explored. Methods: One-hundred and thirty two bereaved individuals who lost a first degree relative or a romantic partner between 5 to 17 months ago took part in the study. Results: A curvilinear relationship between grief intensity and growth was found. Perceiving the loss as traumatic event was found to be significantly related with higher levels of PTG. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses indicated that traumatic perception of loss and coping styles (problem-focused, social support, religious coping) explained 32% of the variance in PTG. Conclusion: The findings of this study support that traumatic losses can be transformative experiences that initiate positive changes in bereaved individuals. However, post-bereavement stress as well as grief intensity should be assessed properly since low and high levels of distress would impede the development of PTG. Clinical interventions should consider promoting grief-focused effective ways of coping with traumatic loss in order to enhance growth in bereavement.