What are the personality and trauma dynamics that contribute to posttraumatic growth?

Abstract

The goal of the current study is to explore the impact of different trauma types and some personality dynamics and their interactions on enhancing or impeding posttraumatic growth (PTG). We proposed a framework that describes such interactions based on the dual information processing systems theory. A sample of 620 college students from two Egyptian universities was tested. We used the Almost Perfect Measure (i.e., high standards, order, and self-discrepancy) to measure in part the precognitive value processing system (VPS), along with measures of PTG, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), complex PTSD, as well as a cumulative trauma scale that measures different trauma types. We used path analysis to test the proposed framework. Results confirmed the basic premises of the framework and replicated previous findings of the differential contribution of trauma types (based on their severity) to PTG. Striving for "standards" and "order" contributed significantly to PTG and predicted a significant reduction in mental health syndromes whereas self-discrepancy predicted decreases in PTG and increases in mental health symptoms. Furthermore, the results highlighted some of the trajectories resulted from the interface among personality dynamics, trauma severity, and suffering. We discuss the implications of the results for future research and interventions.

Toward an Integrative Theory of Self-Identity and Identity Stressors and Traumas and Their Mental Health Dynamics

“…Self-discrepancy (the discrepancy between authentic self-identity and perceived identity in this case), and moral injury were found to be associated with neuroticism, maladaptive coping, and negative affect as well as higher level indicators of psychological maladjustment and disorder (see Stoeber & Otto, 2006, for a comprehensive review). It was found to be associated with neg-ative posttraumatic growth (Shuwiekh et al, 2017). The crisis of meaning found to predict suicidality in youth independently of depression and other potential risk factors (Schnell, Gerstner, & Krampe, 2018).…”

“…Further, identity implicates yearning for authenticity and the need to self-actualize, self-fulfill, and affirm the activated social or personal identity, promoting their goals and life projects. Development-based trauma framework (DBTF) (Kira, 2001, Kira, 2010Kira et al, 2008Kira et al 2011Shuwiekh, Kira, & Ashby, 2017) maps some of the linear and non-linear micro and macro dynamics behind the etiology of identity traumas negative or positive impact (see Figure 1, see also Appendix for terminology definitions). Human beings are self-aware dynamic systems that continually monitor internal and external processes through feedback and feedforward loops.…”

“…Each identity's VPS contributes to evaluating the relevance and importance of an event to the activated identity (Kira, 1987;Shuwiekh, Kira, & Ashby, 2017).…”

A Large‐Scale Survey on Trauma, Burnout, and Posttraumatic Growth among Nurses during the COVID‐19 Pandemic

“…Recognizing that personality dynamics can also facilitate or impede posttraumatic growth, the independent contributions of trauma characteristics and individuals’ personality dynamics to posttraumatic growth warrant further study (Shuwiekh et al . 2018).…”

“…Personality dynamics and trauma characteristics can lead to posttraumatic growth and spirituality; moreover, social support and opportunities for emotional disclosure can buffer against mental illness and stress response (Shuwiekh et al . 2018). However, there is still uncertainty at which point after disasters or other highly challenging life circumstances, posttraumatic growth occurs as the concept is highly complex and can vary due to an individual’s circumstances, demographics, and personality traits (Collier 2016).…”