| Posttraumatic growth has been defined as a positive outcome from a series of cognitive transformations following a traumatic event. Although posttraumatic growth has been studied in several populations, there remain some questions about the construct. The goals of the current study were three-fold: to critically review the literature on schema development and maintenance and process of growth; to examine the component structure of the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI); and to assess the relationship between different types of journaling, posttraumatic growth, and subjective assessments of physical health. Results showed (1) a single-factor PTGI and (2) a decrease in self-reported physical health symptoms between baseline and follow-up. However, there were no effects of journaling on posttraumatic growth or physical health, and posttraumatic growth did not change over time. Future directions and public health implications are discussed. |
