Reflection on Posttraumatic Growth in Children

1. Strongest Areas of Growth Reported by Children

In the studies by Cryder et al. (2006) and Salter & Stallard (2004), children reported several areas of posttraumatic growth (PTG) following traumatic events such as natural disasters and car accidents. The strongest areas of growth reported included:

– Increased Appreciation for Life: Many children expressed a newfound gratitude for their lives and loved ones, recognizing the fragility of existence.
– Enhanced Relationships: Several participants noted that their relationships with family and friends became stronger and more supportive following their traumatic experiences.
– Personal Strength: Many children reported feeling more resilient and capable of coping with challenges after facing their trauma.

Surprisingly, some children articulated a sense of purpose or direction in life that emerged as a result of their experiences. For instance, some felt motivated to help others who had experienced similar traumas, indicating that the event propelled them toward altruistic behaviors and community involvement.

2. Additional Questions for the Children

I would have liked to ask the children questions that delve deeper into their emotional and cognitive processes post-trauma. For example:

– “Can you describe a specific moment when you felt your perspective on life change?” This question could provide insights into the triggers that led to their realizations and growth.
– “How did you feel about discussing your experience with others?” Understanding their comfort level in sharing their trauma can shed light on their coping mechanisms.
– “What support systems helped you during this time?” This inquiry would help identify key sources of support, whether from family, friends, or community resources, which may have facilitated their growth.

These questions could help illuminate the nuanced ways in which children process trauma and experience growth.

3. Impact of PTG on Counselor Interventions

Taking posttraumatic growth into account can significantly alter a counselor’s interventions with a child and family. Understanding that PTG can occur alongside distress allows counselors to foster resilience by:

– Encouraging Narrative Sharing: Counselors might facilitate discussions where children can share their experiences, emphasizing growth aspects while validating their feelings of distress. This dual focus can empower children to see potential positive outcomes from their trauma.
– Fostering Strengths: Counselors can help families identify and build upon the strengths that emerged from the trauma, promoting a sense of agency and control over their narratives.
– Providing Psychoeducation: Educating families about PTG can help normalize their experiences and encourage adaptive coping strategies. This knowledge can also alleviate feelings of isolation or stigma associated with trauma.

By integrating PTG into practice, counselors can create a more holistic approach that acknowledges both the challenges and opportunities for growth following traumatic events.

4. Raising the Issue of PTG Respectfully

When raising the issue of posttraumatic growth with a child and family, it is crucial to approach the topic sensitively and at an appropriate time. Here are a few considerations:

– Timing: Introduce the concept of PTG after establishing rapport and trust with the child and family. Allow them to express their feelings about the traumatic event without rushing to frame it positively.
– Language: Use language that is age-appropriate and sensitive to the family’s experience. Avoid jargon or overly clinical terms that may alienate or confuse them.
– Contextualizing Growth: Frame discussions around PTG in relation to their unique experiences. For example, “Many people find that they develop new strengths after difficult experiences. Have you noticed anything like that in yourself?” This approach invites reflection without imposing expectations of growth.

By approaching the topic with care, counselors can create an environment where families feel safe to explore both their pain and potential growth, ultimately supporting healing and resilience.

References

Cryder, C. H., Kilmer, R. P., Tedeschi, R. G., & Calhoun, L. G. (2006). An exploratory study of posttraumatic growth in children following a natural disaster. American Journal of Orthopsychiatry, 76, 65–69. http://library.esc.edu/login?url=https://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=pdh&AN=2006-03377-010&site=ehost-live

Kilmer, R. P., Gil-Rivas, V., Griese, B., Hardy, S. J., Hafstad, G. S., & Alisic, E. (2014). Posttraumatic growth in children and youth: Clinical implications of emerging research literature. The American Journal of Orthopsychiatry, 84(5), 506–518. http://library.esc.edu/login?url=https://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=pdh&AN=2014-32638-001&site=ehost-live

Salter, E., & Stallard, P. (2004). Posttraumatic growth in child survivors of a road traffic accident. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 17, 335–340. http://library.esc.edu/login?url=https://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=mnh&AN=15462541&site=ehost-live