Growth after betrayal: interplay between event centrality, trauma symptoms, and positive perspectives

While many individuals have experienced a traumatic event in their lifetime, reactions to trauma can vary greatly (Schuettler & Boals, 2011). While some are minimally affected by the traumatic event, others experience a myriad of negative outcomes, such as PTSD and difficulties trusting others (Schuettler & Boals, 2011). Nevertheless, some individuals who experienced trauma report positive changes in their lives following the event, such as improved sense of self and enhanced relationships (Linley & Joseph, 2004). The present study tested the prediction that cognitive processes such as event centrality, trauma symptoms, or positive perspectives on trauma would play a role in growth after an interpersonal trauma. Specifically, it was predicted that event centrality (moderated by trauma symptoms and positive perspectives about trauma) would mediate the relationship between betrayal trauma and posttraumatic growth. Participants (N = 349) completed measures of betrayal trauma, posttraumatic growth, event centrality, trauma symptoms, and positive perspectives on addressing trauma. The hypothesized causal relationship between betrayal trauma and posttraumatic growth was not supported. However, analyses revealed significant lower order relationships among study variables. Recommendations for future research and clinical implications are discussed