Korean J Psychopharmacol.  2015 Jan;26(1):1-9. 10.0000/kjp.2015.26.1.1.

Post-Traumatic Growth: The Conception and Neurobiology

• Jeon SW
• Han C
• Choi J
• Paik JW
• Pae CU
• Chae JH

• KMID: 2287889
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.0000/kjp.2015.26.1.1

Abstract

Stress and trauma research has traditionally focused on negative sequelae of adversity. Recently, research has begun to focus on positive outcomes, specifically post-traumatic growth (PTG) - "positive change experienced as a result of the struggle with trauma" - which emphasizes the transformative potential of one's experiences with highly stressful events and circumstances. This article describes the concept of PTG at three different perspectives. In addition we reviewed the neurobiological factors and mechanism of PTG. It has shown that PTG is mediated by adaptive changes in several neural circuits involving numerous neurotransmitter and molecular pathways. Much more study is required to achieve a deeper understanding the biological and psychological underpinnings of PTG, as well as the interactions between these factors. After all, the clinical phenomenology of PTG is very important for mental growth after trauma. The findings of this article provide further directions for research and clinical implication of PTG.

Keyword

WordszzPost-traumatic growth; Conception; Neurobiology

MeSH Terms

Fertilization*
Life Change Events
Neurobiology*
Neurotransmitter Agents
Neurotransmitter Agents