The Foundations of Posttraumatic Growth: New Considerations

In response to comments on ournlOdel ofposttraumatic growth, we consider the validity of report$ of posttraumatic growth, appropriate methodology to use to assess posttraumatic growth, and its relation with other variables that appear to bear a resemblance to posttraumatic growth (e.g., well-being and psychological adjustment). The potentially important role of proximate and distal cultural factors is also addressed. Clinicians are encouraged to use interventions thatfacilitate posttraumatic growth with care, so as not to create expectations for posttraumatic growth in all traunza survivors, and to instead promote a respect for the difficulty of trauma recovery while allowingfor the exploration ofpossibilitiesfor various kinds of growth even in those who have suffered greatly.