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Claeson O, Rydén Ragnar M, Åström A, Kim Y. Swedish women reaching post-traumatic growth after an intimate partner violence relationship: A study of formal help and growth after trauma. Scand J Public Health 2024:14034948231222366. [PMID: 38186090 DOI: 10.1177/14034948231222366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
AIMS This study examined whether women in Sweden who had been in an intimate partner violence (IPV) relationship reached post-traumatic growth (PTG) and if the level of PTG differed for women who had received formal help compared with women who had not received formal help. The study also examined whether there was a difference in the level of PTG depending on which type of formal help the women had received. METHODS The data were collected through an online self-report survey. A total of 166 women took part in the study. RESULTS The results showed that 69.3% (n = 115) of the women reported a pre-determined or higher level of PTG attainment and that those who had received formal help reported a higher level of PTG than those who had not received formal help. There was no difference in the level of PTG depending on which type of formal help the women had received. CONCLUSIONS The majority of the Swedish women in this study who had lived in an IPV relationship attained PTG. Although formal help appeared to help the women attain PTG, the type of the formal help did not seem to have a crucial role in attaining different levels of PTG. These findings are discussed in the light of the future research directions and public health measures to better support women who experience IPV.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Agnes Åström
- Department of Psychology, Lund University, Sweden
| | - Yunhwan Kim
- Department of Psychology, Lund University, Sweden
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Ella E, Goldner L. Beyond Surviving: A Glimpse Into Jewish-Israeli Women's Recovery Trajectories After Experiencing Intimate Partner Violence. Violence Against Women 2023:10778012231220375. [PMID: 38105622 DOI: 10.1177/10778012231220375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
The present study identifies and articulates the recovery trajectories of 12 Jewish-Israeli women who experienced intimate partner violence. An interpretative phenomenological analysis of the Clinical Ethnographic Narrative interviews revealed three central themes. The first theme dealt with the chronology of the violence and its escalation. The second theme described the turning points that facilitated the termination of the violent relationship. The third theme reflects these women's attempts to regain control and fulfil their needs for competence, autonomy, and relatedness. The findings are discussed through the lens of Jewish-Israeli culture, which is child-oriented and underscores the centrality of motherhood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eini Ella
- School of Creative Arts Therapies, Emili Sagol Creative Arts Therapies Research Center, Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Limor Goldner
- School of Creative Arts Therapies, Emili Sagol Creative Arts Therapies Research Center, Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
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Matheson K, Wornovitzky D, Landry J, Anisman H. An assessment of appraisals of dating relationship conflicts and perceptions of appropriate coping strategies with psychologically abusive interactions. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1286139. [PMID: 38111869 PMCID: PMC10726052 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1286139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Stemming from a stress appraisal and coping perspective, the present investigation developed a methodology for assessing how individuals appraise abusive dating relationship conflicts (Study 1) and the implications of such appraisals for informing coping responses to abusive interactions (Study 2). Methods Participants ranging in age from 17 to 29 years (Study 1: 102 males, 339 females; Study 2: 88 males, 362 females) completed a survey in which they were presented with a series of 10 scenarios that conveyed relationship conflict cues that were ostensibly aligned with various forms of psychological abuse. Results Factor analyses indicated that blatant actions conducted in privacy were differentiated from more ambiguous public forms of psychological abuse, in that the latter were appraised by both males and females as more abusive. Females were further likely to appraise blatant conflicts as more threatening but at the same time more resolvable. Participants who had encountered abuse in their own intimate relationships were especially likely to appraise conflicts as abusive, threatening and uncontrollable. Such appraisals were associated with greater endorsement of avoidant coping strategies in response to an abusive encounter, irrespective of personal relationship experiences. Discussion It is suggested that how individuals appraise relationship conflicts may be key to their ability to cope effectively with such encounters or to provide appropriate support to those experiencing psychologically abusive relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly Matheson
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Institute of Mental Health Research, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | - Jyllenna Landry
- Department of Psychology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Hymie Anisman
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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Sorsa M, Bryngeirsdottir HS, Paavilainen E. "Going Forward Like a Grandmother in the Snow": Personal Survival Strategies, Motherhood, and Nature as Resources for Mothers Who Have Experienced Intimate Partner Violence. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:5389. [PMID: 37048003 PMCID: PMC10094109 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20075389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
After suffering interpersonal violence (IPV), women survivors can access various interdisciplinary services and programmes to guide their recovery. Nevertheless, many vulnerable women postpone seeking help, sometimes indefinitely. Motherhood especially complicates help-seeking because mothers often want to protect both the perpetrator and their children. Understanding women's resilience, resources, and capacities in surviving IPV, however, could guide the development of helpful services that women actually access. Thus, in our study, we sought to explore the agency, resources, and reinforcing survival experiences of survivors of IPV. Our data, gathered in Finland during the COVID-19 pandemic, consisted of 12 narratives of mothers told in Clinical Ethnographic Narrative Interviews that were subsequently subjected to thematic analysis. Five themes describing personal resources, motherhood, and nature were identified under the overarching metaphor of "going forward like a grandmother in the snow". Recognising the agency, resources, capacities, and coping mechanisms of women who have suffered IPV can help in developing professional outreach programmes, promoting women's early access to useful resources, and, in turn, helping them to stop the possible intergenerational transmission of violence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minna Sorsa
- Child Psychiatry, Tampere University Hospital, Wellbeing Area of Pirkanmaa, 33520 Tampere, Finland
- Health Sciences Unit, Faculty of Social Sciences, Tampere University, 33014 Tampere, Finland
| | - Hulda S. Bryngeirsdottir
- School of Health, Business and Natural Sciences, University of Akureyri, Solborg v/Nordurslod, 600 Akureyri, Iceland;
| | - Eija Paavilainen
- Health Sciences Unit, Faculty of Social Sciences, Tampere University, 33014 Tampere, Finland
- Etelä-Pohjanmaa Hospital District, 60220 Seinäjoki, Finland
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Amarsanaa K, Kovács M, Rácz J. Posttraumatic growth: Experiences of Mongolian and Hungarian survivors of intimate partner violence. Acta Psychol (Amst) 2023; 233:103825. [PMID: 36630739 DOI: 10.1016/j.actpsy.2023.103825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 12/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study is to compare posttraumatic growth (PTG) of Mongolian and Hungarian survivors of intimate partner violence. METHODS The study employed semi-structured interviews with fifteen women - ten Mongolian and five Hungarian survivors. Thematic analysis identified patterns and themes regarding survivors' PTG. RESULTS PTG occurred in all participants, and identified themes were; positive changes, strengthened or new relationships and role models, personal strength, interest in advocacy for social change, and new found appreciation of life. Along with learning new skills and knowledge, a sense of security and caring for children were apparent as positive changes as well. Participants acknowledged interpersonal relationships through communities, including parents, colleagues and friends. Personal strengths, such as being trustworthy and optimistic, also contributed to the PTG with realized independence, increased self-confidence, assertiveness and being brave. Participants identified as individuals striving for social justice and being social change agents by involvement in local non-governmental organizations. Appreciation of life was enhanced or encouraged by supportive parents, community and believing in oneself. CONCLUSION Similarities between Hungary and Mongolian survivors are more than the differences in posttraumatic growth for survivors of intimate partner violence. Posttraumatic growth includes acquiring new skills, aspiring for the future, interpersonal relationships, perseverance, and being social change agents. A sense of security, a sense of autonomy, independence and self-worth were significant common features found in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khongorzul Amarsanaa
- Doctoral School of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary; Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Mónika Kovács
- Institute of Intercultural Psychology and Education, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - József Rácz
- Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary; Semmelweis University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Addictology, Budapest, Hungary
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Park SK, Lee SM. What factors are associated with posttraumatic growth among mothers of children with developmental disabilities in South Korea? RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2023; 134:104414. [PMID: 36634522 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2022.104414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The identification of PTG and its correlates in the aftermath of a traumatic event would assist professionals in recognizing and amplifying individual's potential strengths. However, there are few studies on PTG and its correlates in mothers who have birthed or raised children with developmental disabilities in South Korea. AIM This study examined the predictive role of caregiving strain and social support on the subdimensions of PTG among South Korean mothers of children with developmental disabilities. METHODS AND PROCEDURES The participants were 344 mothers of children with intellectual disabilities or autism. PTG was divided into four sub-dimensions (change in self-perception, increase in interpersonal depth, finding new possibilities, and increase in spiritual interest), and the predictive roles of caregiving strain and social support on each sub-dimension were identified using hierarchical multiple regression. OUTCOMES AND RESULTS Subjective caregiving strain; family support services; and support from family, friends, or significant others were significantly related to the subdimensions of PTG. Interestingly, support from significant others was positively associated with PTG. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Social support was more likely to influence all subdimensions of PTG, except for changes in self-perception while only subject caregiving strain was associated with PTG. Thus, policymakers and practitioners should prioritize expanding family support services and strengthening various informal supportive resources for mothers with higher PTG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soo Kyung Park
- Graduate school of Social Welfare, Yonsei University, South Korea
| | - Sung Min Lee
- Graduate school of Social Welfare, Yonsei University, South Korea.
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Doherty ME, Scannell-Desch E. Women's Experiences of a Close Brush With Death and Posttraumatic Growth. Nurs Womens Health 2023; 27:15-24. [PMID: 36529258 DOI: 10.1016/j.nwh.2022.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the experiences of women who have had a close brush with death and the elements of posttraumatic growth as a result of their experiences. DESIGN Using a theoretical framework of posttraumatic growth, we conducted a qualitative descriptive study with interviews of women who have had a close brush with death. SETTING Women were interviewed in the environment of their choosing: in their home, at a coffee shop, or over the telephone. PARTICIPANTS Twelve women ages 35 to 79 years from the United States participated in the study, all of whom reported having a close brush with death. METHOD Interviews were conducted using a semistructured interview guide derived from the theoretical framework. RESULTS Five themes emerged from the data: My Trauma Experience, My Will to Live, SupportWas Important, Putting the Pieces of My Life Back Together, and Near-Death Experiences. Participants reported having experienced various elements of posttraumatic growth. Many attributed their posttraumatic growth to a myriad of factors such as having a supportive network, their belief in God as a source of strength, and the will to live. Others credited health care professionals for quality care and encouragement. CONCLUSION Knowledge development regarding posttraumatic growth can enhance nursing practice in the care of women as they navigate life after trauma. Nurses and other health care providers are in strategic positions to educate women about the possibility of posttraumatic growth after adversity. They can help women find their path with a strong voice after trauma. Women who have experienced posttraumatic growth can teach others about healing, coping, empathy, compassion, and the importance of human connection.
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The Post-Traumatic Growth Journey of Women Who Have Survived Intimate Partner Violence: A Synthesized Theory Emphasizing Obstacles and Facilitating Factors. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19148653. [PMID: 35886504 PMCID: PMC9321137 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19148653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Suffering intimate partner violence (IPV) is a devastating personal experience and post-traumatic growth (PTG) is a positive, psychological change in a person, following trauma such as IPV. There is a gap in the literature when it comes to theories on PTG after surviving IPV. The aim of this theory development was to synthesize an approach to understanding the PTG journey of female IPV survivors. According to our theory, their PTG journey includes eight main components: 1. The women’s early experience of trauma, 2. The consequences of that trauma, 3. Their experiences of IPV, 4. The consequences of IPV, 5. The facilitating factors to PTG, 6. The hindering factors to PTG, 7. Their experience of PTG, and 8. The lingering effects of IPV. According to our findings, PTG is a real possibility for female IPV survivors, and it is likely to improve their mental health, well-being, and quality of life, as well as that of their children, loved ones, and communities, thereby decreasing the damaging effects of IPV. The theory can be useful for professionals when guiding female survivors of IPV to promote their recovery and healing. Due to the lack of research in this field, additional research is needed to further develop this theory.
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Fourteen Main Obstacles on the Journey to Post-Traumatic Growth as Experienced by Female Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence: " It Was All So Confusing". INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19095377. [PMID: 35564770 PMCID: PMC9101378 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19095377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we identified 14 obstacles experienced by female survivors of intimate partner violence who had, nonetheless, reached post-traumatic growth (PTG), which is a positive psychological change by a person following serious difficulties or traumatic events. Intimate partner violence (IPV) is such a trauma. The purpose of this study was to analyze the obstacles to PTG as experienced by women who have succeeded in reaching PTG following traumatic IPV. Participants were twenty-two women aged 23–56 who self-reported their PTG according to the working definition used. The participants reported feelings of diminished self-worth that had negatively influenced their lives and how these negative feelings delayed their PTG. The overriding theme of the study was “It was all so confusing”, which expressed the essence of the participants’ feelings when describing the obstacles they encountered on their journey to PTG. Most of those obstacles were intrapersonal, i.e., negative personal feelings and negative perspectives towards themselves. Other obstacles reported by participants were physical and psychological health problems, challenging personal circumstances, and the perpetrator, as well as laws, regulations, and institutional social systems. This study reveals the broad range of obstacles encountered by women on their journey to PTG following IPV, emphasizing the necessity of an interdisciplinary approach when holistically considering their situation and supporting them on their journey towards PTG.
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