J Korean Neuropsychiatr Assoc.  2015 Feb;54(1):32-39. 10.4306/jknpa.2015.54.1.32.

Posttraumatic Growth and Resilience: Assessment and Clinical Implications

• Jeon SW
• Han C
• Choi J
• Pae CU
• Chae JH
• Ko YH
• Yoon HK
• Han C

• KMID: 2343996
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4306/jknpa.2015.54.1.32

Abstract

Stress and trauma research has traditionally focused on the negative sequela of adversity. Recently, research has begun to focus on positive outcomes, specifically posttraumatic 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. For evaluation of PTG, resilience is very important. Resilience refers to a person's ability to successfully adapt to acute stress, trauma or more chronic forms of adversity, maintaining psychological well-being. This article introduces several measurement scales for assessment of PTG and resilience. In addition, we suggest psychological techniques for facilitating PTG focusing on the relationship with adaptation after trauma. Finally, we discuss the applicability of a therapeutic approach for PTG in clinical practice. The systemic review of this article will provide further directions for PTG and resilience.

Keyword

Posttraumatic growth; Resilience; Assessment; Scale; Psychology; Adaptation; Clinical; Treatment

MeSH Terms

Life Change Events
Psychological Techniques
Psychology
Weights and Measures

Figure

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  Fig. 1 Possible outcomes of adversity. PTG: Posttraumatic growth, PTSD: Posttraumatic stress disorder.

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  Fig. 2 Distribution of the results after traumatic event. PTG: Posttraumatic growth, PTSD: Posttraumatic stress disorder.

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