A Post-Traumatic Growth Perspective on PTSD: Implications for Those Who Have Served and Their Partners

Norris, Deborah; Evans, Kimberley Smith; Cramm, Heidi; Tam‐Seto, Linna

doi:10.1080/21635781.2022.2098885

Cited by 1 publication

(1 citation statement)

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“…The posttraumatic growth model has been expanded to the family system level, demonstrating how the family unit may experience growth following trauma [ 35 ]. Nevertheless, there remains limited understanding of the mechanisms by which PTSD creates vicarious opportunities for growth [ 36 ], although an interpersonal process including responsiveness and perceived responsiveness of one’s partner may be one way, as indicated in a study investigating posttraumatic growth in couples whose homes had been severely damaged by flooding [ 37 ]. Further research into vicarious posttraumatic growth is warranted, including when and how partners’ growth might influence one another in a couple system.…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Partners’ experiences of their loved ones’ trauma and PTSD: An ongoing journey of loss and gain

Powling,

Brown,

Tekin

et al. 2024

PLoS ONE

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Background Traumatic life events can have a profound impact on the physical and psychological wellbeing of not only those who directly experience them, but others who are indirectly affected, such as victims’ partners. Aims This study aimed to explore the experiences and views of partners of individuals who have a history of trauma and diagnosis of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Methods In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with six partners of people who had experienced trauma and were diagnosed with PTSD and awaiting or receiving treatment at a specialist Trauma Service. The data was analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Results One overarching theme resulted from the data: partners experienced trauma and PTSD as an ongoing journey of loss and gain. This was supported by three superordinate themes: making sense of the trauma and ensuing consequences, shifting identities, and accessing and experiencing outside resources. Partners’ journeys were characterised by striving and struggling to make sense of the trauma and its ensuing consequences, whilst grappling with the identities of themselves, their partners and relationships shifting over time. Participants navigated their journeys in the context of external resources and support from friends, family, colleagues and professionals. Conclusions The results of this study highlight the need for greater information and support for partners of people with PTSD.

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Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%