As a clinician we look at the impacts of trauma in a person’s life. While there is a bearing witness to painful experiences, there is also an amazing privilege that we get to watch. This includes the discovery and existence of great resiliency realized at a deeper measure. Fashioned from the most difficult of places can emerge what is known as Post Traumatic Growth.
“Posttraumatic Growth (PTG)-, defined as positive psychological change experienced as a result of adversity and other challenges in order to rise to a higher level of functioning”- Tedeschi and Calhoun.
There are five areas that are prominent: ones appreciation of life, discovery of strength, seeing new possibilities, change spiritually, and deeper relationship with others.
Appreciation of Life- Gratitude that they survived, aiding in identifying what’s most important in the here and now.
Relationships With Others- New discoveries of those around them, relationships may take on new meaning.
New Possibilities in Life- Can help reprioritize and revaluate life goals.
Personal Strength- People may discover levels of resiliency and strength they did not know they had.
Spiritual Change- Prior beliefs can be strengthened or new ones emerge.
Video On Post Traumatic Growth- Dr Richard Tedeschi
References
Posttraumatic growth. (2019, April 18). Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/surviving-thriving/201904/posttraumatic-growth
Post traumatic growth: Finding meaning after trauma. (2020, September 28). Choosing Therapy. https://www.choosingtherapy.com/post-traumatic-growth/
Posttraumatic growth. (2019, April 18). Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/surviving-thriving/201904/posttraumatic-growth
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