Role of religion in posttraumatic growth among population exposed to armed conflict: a systematic review

Abstract

ABSTRACT The study aims to systematically review the relationship between religiosity and posttraumatic growth in populations exposed to armed conflict. A search of the published literature identified 06 empirical studies that reported links between religiosity and posttraumatic growth in armed conflict. This review identified three main findings. First, a relationship exists between religiosity and PTG in the context of armed conflict. Second, religious coping was found to be associated with the development of posttraumatic growth. Third, the traumatic experiences from armed conflict can lead to the deepening of religiosity. This review highlights that while the available evidence is limited, individuals’ religious and spiritual beliefs can significantly influence their ability to thrive and experience growth after trauma from armed conflict.