Russon, Simon (2011) Understanding posttraumatic growth : an analysis of longitudinal research and the moderating effect of resilience. DClinPsych thesis, University of Warwick.

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Abstract

This thesis consists of three chapters: A literature review, an empirical study and a
reflective account of the research process. The overarching theme of the thesis is
posttraumatic growth (PTG), which is defined as positive psychological changes that occur
during the aftermath of traumatic events.
The literature review examines the findings from 31 longitudinal studies and explores
associations between PTG and various demographic, personality, religious, cognitive,
emotional, social and behavioural factors. Research examining the relationship between
PTG and psychological adjustment is presented and interventional attempts to facilitate
PTG are reviewed. The closing section includes a discussion of limitations to the identified
studies and reflections on the implications the findings of this review have for research and
clinical practice.
The empirical study investigates the relationship between PTG and resilience in a sample of
121 student paramedics. All participants indentified PTG however there was large
variability within the scores. PTG correlated positively with responses to an item assessing
the emotional impact of the most serious incident attended, however no significant effects
were found for resilience. Response bias may have had an impact on a number of study
variables but this is uncertain given the poor performance of the social desirability scale on
a measure of internal consistency. Student paramedics appear able to experience PTG
however the relationship the construct shares with resilience remains an issue for further
research.
The reflective account focuses on the research journey. Here I provide reflections on
different aspects of the project; consider what I have learnt from these experiences and
reflect on the overall impact completing the thesis has had on me.

Item Type:	Thesis or Dissertation (DClinPsych)
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH):	Psychic trauma, Resilience (Personality trait)
Official Date:	May 2011
Dates:	Date Event May 2011 Submitted
Institution:	University of Warwick
Theses Department:	Department of Psychology
Thesis Type:	DClinPsych
Publication Status:	Unpublished
Supervisor(s)/Advisor:	Patterson, Tom, Dr.
Description:	Completed in conjunction with Coventry University. School of Health and Social Sciences.
Extent:	viii, 131 leaves
Language:	eng

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