Posttraumatic growth among children and adolescent survivors of trauma: Systematic scoping review

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Fayaz, I. (2024). Posttraumatic growth among children and adolescent survivors of trauma: Systematic scoping review. Journal of Child & Adolescent Trauma.

Introduction
The reviewed article explores posttraumatic growth (PTG) in children and adolescents, a concept describing positive psychological changes following traumatic events. Fayaz (2024) reviews the literature in this area, intending to fill gaps in our understanding of PTG’s prevalence and domains among younger populations.

Methods
PsycINFO, PubMed, and Web of Science were utilized. From an initial pool of 117 articles, 35 met inclusion criteria based on their focus on PTG in youth exposed to trauma. The quality of studies was assessed using the “Quality Assessment Tool for Observational Cohort and Cross-Sectional Studies,” categorizing them as good, fair, or poor.

Results
The prevalence of PTG varied widely, with Posttraumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI) scores ranging from 2.10 to 81.84 across studies. PTG domains included:

  • Relating to others: Improved interpersonal relationships.
  • New possibilities: Broader life opportunities.
  • Spiritual change: Heightened spiritual beliefs.
  • Appreciation of life: Increased gratitude.
  • Personal strength: Enhanced resilience.

Factors linked to PTG included social support, religious engagement, positive rumination, and active coping strategies. For instance, social support was both a predictor and outcome of PTG, suggesting a bidirectional relationship.

Discussion
The findings underscore that PTG may indicate resilience and potential for recovery among traumatized youth. Social and cultural contexts significantly influence PTG development, with religious and communal support serving as critical facilitators.

Implications for Mentoring Programs

  • Training: Program’s will want to consider incorporating training for their mentors on trauma-informed approaches, that support mentors in acknowledging both distress and growth potential that can develop from experiences of trauma.
  • Fostering communal resilience: Programs will want to specifically and intentionally foster social support systems among mentees, including peer and community connections, to increase shared resilience and growth potential.

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