“Can there be growth after trauma? An application-focused review of posttraumatic growth”

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Traumatic experiences are relatively common for individuals, particularly Military members, and can have long-term negative impacts such as posttraumatic stress, comorbid mental health symptoms, and functional impairment. However, a growing body of research suggests that some civilians and service members who experience traumas also report beneficial personal growth from the experience; this phenomenon has been termed Posttraumatic Growth (PTG). Understanding PTG and how it occurs has important implications for civilian and Military individuals who have experienced trauma as well as the helping professionals who serve them. This literature review provides an overview of trauma, definitions and conceptual frameworks of PTG mechanisms, static and dynamic factors related to PTG, and examples of interventions used to promote growth. Relevant and application-focused implications for helping professionals are provided.