Exploring posttraumatic growth in individuals bereaved by suicide: A secondary data analysis of a national survey.

Abstract

This article explores the concept of posttraumatic growth (PTG) in individuals bereaved by suicide. The present study employs an exploratory approach to examine secondary data from a national survey. A sample of 2369 (n = 2369) responses were examined. Various instruments were utilized to assess grief experiences, social support, and personal growth. Descriptive statistics, correlational analysis and a hierarchical regression model were used to examine the relationship between the variables in this study. Hierarchical regression analysis revealed six independent predictors of PTG: social and formal support, time since loss, grief experiences, gender and multiple losses. The study highlighted the potential for growth in the aftermath of suicide bereavement, emphasizing the critical role of social support and the importance of time in promoting PTG. Despite some limitations, the present findings provide novel insight into the underlying mechanisms of PTG in suicide-bereaved individuals.