Review Article

Factors Contributing to Post-Traumatic Personal Growth: Insights from Syrian Refugees

Amani Safwat ElBarazi*

College of Education and Arts, Lusail University, P.O.BOX, Lusail, Doha, Qatar

Submission:April 27, 2024; Published:May 29, 2024

*Corresponding author:Amani ElBarazi, PhD, College of Education and Arts, Lusail University, P.O.BOX, Lusail, Doha, Qatar, Email: aelbarazi@lu.edu.qa

How to cite this article: Amani Safwat E. Factors Contributing to Post-Traumatic Personal Growth: Insights from Syrian Refugees. Glob J Intellect Dev Disabil. 2024; 13(4): 555870. DOI:10.19080/GJIDD.2024.13.555870

Abstract

The process of personal growth and development following a traumatic occurrence can serve as a catalyst for profound transformation, allowing individuals to unearth their inherent strength and resilience. The main aim of this study was to identify the factors that contribute to the phenomenon of posttraumatic growth. This paper presents a comprehensive examination of the scholarly literature pertaining to post-traumatic personal growth, focusing on publications released between the years 2003 and 2023. We found that many trauma survivors undergo a process of self-reflection, recovery, and regaining trust in themselves and others. We found that after a traumatic event, people may acquire new perspectives on life, develop coping mechanisms, and even discover latent talents or inclinations, all of which contribute to their overall personal growth. We concluded that emotional regulation, compassion for oneself and others, spirituality, resilience-related personality traits, hardiness, dispositional positive affectivity, dispositional gratitude, social support, and physical health are the most important factors that can contribute to post-traumatic personal growth. Insights from Syrian refugees were included.

Keywords: Trauma; Personal Growth; Resilience; Emotion regulation; Post-traumatic growth

Introduction

Since 2011, Syria has been involved in a bloody civil conflict. The impact of war on an individual’s mental health is both detrimental and long-lasting [1]. Fears, traumatic experiences, unpleasant emotions, loss, grief, and uncertainty are typically the results of war [2,3]. The likelihood of Syrian refugees developing post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, and other mental illnesses is estimated to be 10 times higher [4]. In a recently published study [5], the mental health of 196 Syrian refugees in Egypt who had been impacted by the violence was examined. They discovered that 33.5% of patients suffered from PTSD, 30% battled depression, and 13.7% made suicidal attempts [5]. A recent study revealed that certain characteristics, such as sociability, coping strategies, religion, and optimism, have consequences for refugees’ posttraumatic growth following traumatic experiences [6]. Moreover, a study showed that resilience and posttraumatic growth may protect refugees from PTSD [7].

However, less is known about the potential positive effects of trauma on well-being and personal growth. Therefore, our article will review and synthesize the literature on refugee posttraumatic growth. This paper seeks to cast light on the potential benefits individuals may experience after experiencing traumatic events as refugees by analyzing existing research. In addition, it aims to identify the factors that contribute to posttraumatic growth and investigate how it can improve the overall health of this population.

Methods

Study Design

This article is a selected literature evaluation of works published between 2003 and 2023 on post-traumatic personal growth. PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) criteria were followed.

Search Strategy

A complete search of the databases PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Cumulative, and PsycINFO was done. We utilized a search strategy based on the following term: (post-traumatic personal growth). The search was last updated in July 2023.

Selection Criteria

The investigation of post-traumatic personal development was the primary focus of the research that was carried out. As a consequence of this, the only research that was considered for inclusion was those that studied the aspects leading to post-traumatic personal growth. This evaluation did not include any items that did not pertain to the topic at hand, such as conference proceedings, editorials, or letters. There were no limitations placed on either the language or the methodology of the investigation.

Results

After doing a literature search between the years 2003 and 2023, we found that the process of post-traumatic personal growth is a complicated and multi-step endeavor that takes place in people after they have been exposed to a traumatic event. This growth may show itself in a multitude of ways, including enhanced resilience, a deeper appreciation for life, and a sense of personal fortitude. In addition, research suggests that post-traumatic personal growth is reliant not only on the intensity of the trauma experienced but also on personal variables such as coping techniques and social support networks. A more in-depth analysis is going to be presented in the coming paragraphs.

Post-Traumatic Growth

Posttraumatic growth is a theoretical framework that encompasses the constructive transformations experienced in an individual’s personal and psychological aspects following their confrontation with a traumatic event [8-10].

Post-traumatic growth examines the exploration of favorable transformations in personal characteristics, sense of self, viewpoints, and interpersonal connections that individuals may experience in reaction to trauma. Current studies propose defining post-traumatic development as a constructive alteration in one’s personality after trauma, rather than solely as a means of coping or displaying resilience [11]. This viewpoint recognizes that individuals have the potential to thrive and grow in significant ways after experiencing traumatic events, leading to a heightened comprehension of their strengths and capabilities [12].

It has been demonstrated that traumatic experiences may pave the way for improved levels of strength and compassion for other people. These people have been able to turn their suffering into resilience and empathy via the use of their experiences as a driving force behind their personal development [13]. They have gained a distinctive viewpoint because of overcoming hardship, which enables them to connect with other people on a more profound level and to make a good effect on the lives of those people [14]. The concept of post-traumatic personal growth should be seen as something that emerges not just from the traumatic event but also from inside the individuals themselves as they go through the process of coping with the traumatic event and the aftermath of it. Following is an explanation of the most influential factors contributing to post-traumatic growth.

Factors Contributing to Post-Traumatic Growth

The first personal element that can contribute to post-traumatic growth is emotion regulation [15]. Emotional regulation is one of the most essential aspects of establishing a framework for the mind, which aids in adapting to unexpected new experiences in life, and Identifying areas of weakness and anxiety, as well as a heightened sense of remorse and wrath, by concentrating on transforming the effects of trauma into positive emotions and test the possibilities and ramifications of this [16]. Individuals can develop resilience and adaptability through the practice of emotional regulation, enabling them to navigate life’s challenges with greater ease. This skill also allows them to develop a sense of self-awareness, fostering personal development and healthier relationships with themselves. There will be both positive and negative outcomes following a traumatic event in a person’s life, as they will discover new opportunities, and prosperity and development will occur organically [17,18].

Many survivors of war-related trauma can recover themselves and learn to regulate their feelings and emotions by regulating their negative emotions. They learn to disclose their emotions without feeling shamed and to describe what transpired as well as the extent to which it affected them. By regulating their emotions, they learn to tell their traumatic experiences with optimism. They sometimes feel this way because what they have endured expands their purview of accomplishments and self-realization. This newly acquired capacity to regulate their emotions enables survivors of war-related trauma to navigate their daily lives with a sense of empowerment and fortitude. They can channel their experiences into personal growth and find comfort in the belief that their prior tribulations have made them stronger people.

Moreover, it was shown that difficulties in emotion regulation mediated the relationship between the severity of childhood trauma and cluster B characteristics, as well as the relationship between the severity of childhood trauma and posttraumatic growth (PTG). Therefore, emotion regulation is a critical mediator of both good and negative psychological changes, and it should be the focus of rehabilitation efforts among people who survived childhood trauma [19].

Second, it is important to cultivate both self-compassion and compassion for others. Compassion encompasses qualities such as interpersonal affection, sympathy, tenderness, and a positive inclination toward the well-being of others [18]. Compassion entails acknowledging and understanding the pain experienced by others, along with possessing a profound longing to alleviate their suffering or improve their overall welfare. Individuals that demonstrate compassion frequently manifest behaviors characterized by kindness, empathy, and humility. These qualities together contribute to the fostering of a culture that is characterized by increased levels of compassion and affection [20,21].

The development of an in-depth understanding and empathic disposition can foster the manifestation of benevolence towards individuals, therefore enabling the process of post-traumatic growth. By deliberately exhibiting compassion towards persons who have encountered traumatic situations, we foster an atmosphere that facilitates the process of healing and cultivates resilience. Furthermore, the cultivation of compassion can facilitate individuals in discovering meaning in their unique life events via the recognition of their inherent resilience and capacity to recover, therefore fostering personal development and advancement [22].

When individuals are faced with traumatic circumstances, they possess the capacity to cultivate personal growth through practicing self-compassion [23]. It provides individuals with the opportunity to acknowledge their personal experiences of distress and hardship through the lens of compassion and empathy, so promoting the development of resilience and facilitating the journey of recovery. By engaging in the practice of self-compassion, individuals can foster a perception of self-value and internal fortitude, so enabling them to effectively manage the challenges associated with traumatic events. This enhanced resilience eventually facilitates personal development and progress [24].

Third: Spirituality the incorporation of spirituality into one’s life has the potential to augment the process of post-traumatic recovery since it offers individuals a profound feeling of purpose and meaning [25]. The promise of spiritual beliefs and practices lies in their ability to provide individuals with peace, hope, and a sense of connection to a greater force in the face of challenging situations [26]. Furthermore, spirituality may function as a guiding paradigm for the processes of forgiveness, acceptance, and resilience, enabling individuals to effectively negotiate painful situations and ultimately emerge with heightened fortitude and resilience [27].

Fourth, the connection between posttraumatic growth and the capacity to overcome trauma has been shown in personality qualities such as resilience, dispositional positive affectivity, and dispositional thankfulness and hardiness [28]. Hardiness pertains to an individual’s capacity to sustain a perception of control and steadfastness when confronted with adversity, demonstrating commitment, and effectively managing stresses as formidable obstacles [29]. Resilience pertains to an individual’s capability to adapt to difficult situations and then recover from them [30]. The propensity to appreciate and articulate appreciation for one’s privileges, referred to as dispositional gratitude, might potentially play a role in the formation of posttraumatic growth [31-33]. Furthermore, the dispositional positive affectivity of an individual, characterized by an optimistic outlook on life, may have an impact on their ability to discover meaning and experience personal growth under difficult situations [34].

Fifth, the provision of social support can serve as a facilitator for growth in the aftermath of traumatic situations [35]. According to existing research, there is evidence to suggest that persons who have robust social support networks are more likely to have post-traumatic development. This type of support can be obtained from individuals such as friends, family members, or support groups, fostering a sense of connection and empathy during the recovery journey. In addition, social support provides a range of perspectives and strategies for managing traumatic events, assisting individuals in overcoming these experiences and finding renewed meaning in their lives [36].

Sixth, personal growth after a traumatic event should include efforts to better one’s physical health, such as engaging in regular exercise, maintaining a healthy diet, and receiving adequate rest [37].

Moreover, there is a contention that the more severe the loss, the more significant the potential for personal development. This indicates that individuals who experience substantial losses might have a greater chance for personal growth and transformation. It suggests that facing adversity can act as a catalyst for personal development, leading to enhanced resilience and self-discovery [38]. However, research was conducted to assess the prevalence of Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG) among Syrian refugees. They discovered that the sample had a satisfactory amount of PTG. There was a linear association between PTG and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), with moderate PTSD levels being related to the highest levels of PTG. PTG was substantially linked with five other characteristics as well: being older, having less education, experiencing somatic distress, and having a history of spending the night in a mental health facility were all associated with lower PTG, whereas having more years of schooling was associated with greater PTG [39].

Insights from Syrian refugees

Based on our psychotherapy experience with refugees and war-traumatized individuals, after experiencing trauma, some people accept what occurred, realize they have no control over it, and suffer from fear, remorse, and sorrow as a result of all the events they endured. Then, they acquire the insight and awareness necessary to recognize their inner strengths and find new paths in life and relationships. They endeavor to improve the quality of their existence and cultivate an attitude of gratitude for having it. Despite losses, disasters, job losses, physical and psychological stress, economic crisis, incurable illnesses, ambiguous losses, etc., they recognize that being alive is still a gift. Despite the suffering that some of us have endured because of war, we have gained valuable knowledge, albeit with a bitter tang. They have gained resilience and a deeper appreciation for the value of life as a result of these experiences. They have learned to appreciate minor pleasures and to find meaning in even the most difficult situations.

After experiencing war-related trauma, numerous individuals have attempted to understand the nature of the trauma that caused cognitive difficulties and traumatic memories. Before the Syrian war, the majority of Syrians believed that they were far away from problems and safe and that their social and economic conditions were strong. They believed that they would bow to the storm to pass and sail through life normally, but unfortunately, the opposite occurred; many people have lost many loved ones and suffered greatly as a result. Their existential perspective on the meaning of life shifted and took on a new form. The conflict disrupted the people’s illusions of safety and stability, forcing them to confront the harsh reality of loss and suffering. Not only did the trauma affect their cognitive abilities, but it also left them with profound emotional wounds that continue to haunt them.

After experiencing war-related trauma, individuals began to dispute their beliefs and convictions, and they felt confused and terrified. When they recall what occurred, they experience anxiety and wonder, “Who controlled the events at that time?” They continue to recall what occurred to them and others, as well as how they responded to the trauma. This will cause them to reevaluate their entire lives and the country in which they reside, as well as the extent of its capabilities and what the future may contain, which will be extremely disappointing. They acknowledge that they have changed and that traumatic experiences have flipped their lives upside down. They used to conclude that life is not static, but rather dynamic and full of bitterness and tenderness. They have realized that life is a perpetual journey of ups and downs, replete with both happiness and sorrow.

With traumas and crises, people can strengthen themselves, learn about their positives and negatives, and begin to consider how to invest the positives and manage the negatives so that life can continue smoothly, in the sense that we struggle, strive, realize, be conscious, face problems, endure frustration, elicit, and develop. Individuals can cultivate resilience and adaptability by viewing adversity as an opportunity for development. This process entails recognizing people’s vulnerabilities, seeking assistance from others, and employing effective coping strategies to overcome obstacles. Crisis management can ultimately result in personal transformation and the acquisition of valuable life skills.

Conclusion

Emotional regulation, compassion for oneself and others, spirituality, resilience-related personality traits, tenacity, dispositional positive affectivity, dispositional gratitude, social support, and physical health are the most important factors that can contribute to post-traumatic personal development. In addition, engaging in meaningful activities and discovering a purpose in life have been found to contribute significantly to post-traumatic personal development. It is essential to note that these factors can vary from person to person, and their impact on individual experiences of personal development after trauma may vary depending on the combination of these factors.

Ethical Statements

Funding: No funds for this research.

Availability of data and materials: NA.

Conflict of interest: No actual or potential conflicts of interest exist for any authors on this paper.

Consent for publication: all authors consent to the publication of the manuscript.

Ethical approval: NA.

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