Work

Posttraumatic Growth Among Young Women, Comparing Risk and Protective Factors in Sexual Violence Survivors Versus Other Trauma Survivors

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: This study examined differences between young women who are survivors of sexual violence and young women who are survivors of other traumas in terms of posttraumatic growth (PTG) and possible PTG predictors: personal factors (shame and self-blame) and social factors (social support and social reactions to the traumatic event). Additionally, the study explored the possible association between these factors and PTG among the two groups. The sample comprised 285 female trauma survivors, aged 18-30, of whom 128 were sexual violence survivors. Lower PTG was found among sexual violence survivors, while shame, self-blame, and receiving negative reactions were higher among this group than the other group. Among both groups, higher levels of PTG were associated with low levels of shame and high levels of positive reactions, but only in those who experienced sexual violence was PTG associated with high levels of self-blame. Implications for research and practice are discussed.

Source: Journal of Child & Adolescent Trauma

DOI: 10.1007/s40653-024-00649-y

Authors: Tehila Refaeli, Ela Shir

Institution: Ben-Gurion University of the Negev

Language: English

Topic: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Research

Subfield: Clinical Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Gender equality, Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,990