Longitudinal Trajectories of PTSD Symptoms Predict Levels of Posttraumatic Growth in World Trade Center Responders

Background Prior research has indicated that posttraumatic growth (PTG) often co-occurs with symptoms of stress disorder (PTSD). However, it is yet unclear what longitudinal patterns symptom levels may predict the development PTG. Methods World Trade Center (WTC) rescue and recovery workers (2038 police 2103 non-traditional responders) were assessed an average 3, 6, 8, 12 years post-9/11/2001. Responders’ WTC-related PTSD characterized by No/Low Symptom, Worsening/Subtly Worsening, Steeply Worsening (only for responders), Improving, Chronic trajectories. trajectories examined as predictors PTG, which was using total scores on Posttraumatic Growth Inventory-Short Form. Results Across both occupational groups, being female, older, Hispanic, experiencing more post-9/11 traumatic events independently associated self-reported Among responders, a greater number WTC exposures supportive family members while working at site linked to higher Black race/ethnicity, less education, fewer pre-9/11 events, presence support additionally Only moderate (ie, worsening improving) responders all symptomatic Conclusions Symptomatic 12-year certain sociodemographic characteristics, stressor exposures, resources PTG in traditional responders. provide insight into subgroups who benefit from PTG-promoting interventions, well potentially modifiable targets help foster this population.