An investigation of vicarious posttraumatic growth

Vicarious posttraumatic growth is a relatively new concept that describes positive psychological change following indirect exposure to trauma. The current thesis begins with a narrative review that investigates the methodological and conceptual challenges of research into vicarious posttraumatic growth. This review identifies numerous challenging areas for researchers. Conceptually these challenges included difficulties determining whether growth is reality or illusion, and whether growth is a unitary or multidimensional concept. Methodologically, difficulties were highlighted including the problems associated with real life research, self report data and measuring growth. In light of this, the paper considers the current literature and offers conclusions and recommendations for future research. Following this review of the literature, the research paper outlines an investigation of vicarious posttraumatic growth in 118 therapists. The aim was to examine whether empathy, organisational support or sense of coherence moderated the relationship between exposure to trauma and growth. Moderation multiple regression analyses found that the amount of . vicarious exposure to trauma in therapists significantly predicted vicarious posttraumatic growth and that this relationship was moderated by empathy. All other hypotheses were not supported. These findings are discussed in terms of theoretical and clinical implications as well as avenues for further research. Finally the critical review aims to provide additional information regarding the literature review and research paper and offer further discussion of key issues and the personal reflections of the researcher. The critical review considers whether the development of growth is an incremental or abrupt process and discusses whether growth is solely a western concept. Furthermore, the impact of sampling, attrition and online recruitment on the research paper findings are also discussed. Personal reflections and key learning points complete the critical review.EThOS - Electronic Theses Online ServiceGBUnited Kingdo