FMP 047 • Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG) – Definition and Application

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“Some view their history as opportunity.”

Definition and Application of Post-Traumatic Growth

We are all familiar with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This potentially debilitating presentation is found in individuals that have suffered traumatic experiences, typically from external forces with significant power over the individual. PTSD is often the result of war, childhood physical and/or sexual trauma, etc.

Recent research reveals another group of individuals with lived trauma experience, but with a very different reaction; They describe the trauma inducing events as opportunity for personal growth. In today’s episode, we discuss the definition and application of individuals falling into a Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG) cohort, vs. PTSD.

Episode Outline

Welcome to Episode 047: Defining Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG)

1. What We Do:
   • Behavioural Medicine and Health Psychology
   • Providing easily accessible content designed to help you design your own transformative experience.
2. Today:
   • Back to Basics: Expanding our conceptualization of trauma through an understanding of growth through the experience of trauma.
   • Sources:
     • Mind Body Green: “10% Of People Will Likely Experience Post-Pandemic Growth: A Neuroscientist Psychiatrist Explains What That Means” – Author Dr. Daniel Amen.
     • Journal of Psychology Inquiry: “Post-traumatic Growth: Conceptual Foundations and Empirical Evidence” – Tedeschi, et.al.
3. New Digital Line:
   • You can now leave us a voicemail right from your browser!
   • In addition to the phone numbers found on our site for VM and Txt feedback.
   • Navigate through >> Support Bubble >> Get in touch >> Call Us >> Start Call

Post-Traumatic Growth – Definition and Application

1. Trauma Research Findings:
   • 80% of those who experience trauma will recover within months.
   • 10% of individuals will experience long lasting PTSD symptoms that justifies formal diagnosis and treatment (flashbacks, anxiety, depersonalization, panic, substance use.)
   • What’s left? The remaining 10%?
     • Psychologists Richard Tedeschi and Lawrence Calhoun
     • Traumatic events has a lasting positive effect – Individuals feel stronger and more alive.
   • SPARK Acronym – How PTG Looks in the Field:
     • Spirituality – Renewed sense of purpose.
     • Possibilities – Finding opportunities through event.
     • Appreciation – A renewed focus on “the little things.”
     • Relationships – Improved connection with loved ones.
     • Kick-Ass Personal Growth – “I can survive anything.”
2. Fostering PTG
   • If you have PTSD, should you try to develop PTG?
     • YES!
   • Target the development of self-efficacy
   • Target an internal locus of control
   • Target developing a future focused attitude – Trauma as teacher, not anchor.
   • Target connecting deeper to others and in improving your social web.
   • Target the present moment – Manage rumination.
   • Target learning something new.
   • Target physical activity – Boosting your neurochemistry towards anxiety fighting neurotransmitters and hormones (fighting cortisol).
   • Target insight building of available opportunities from traumatic experience.