Citation

Shigemoto Y, Robitschek C. J. Am. Coll. Health 2018; 66(5): 350-359.

Affiliation

Texas Tech University.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2018, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/07448481.2018.1431900

PMID

29405871

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: This study examined the inconsistent relationship found between personal growth initiative (PGI) and posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) by exploring potential subgroups. In addition, after identifying the subgroups, potential predictors of these subgroups were examined. PARTICIPANTS: Participants were 534 undergraduate students who experienced a potentially traumatic event (PTE). Data collection occurred from March 2013 - December 2014.

METHODS: Because this was a preliminary study, archival data was used. Participants consisted of students who experienced a PTE within the past three years.

RESULTS: Latent profile analysis indicated a five-class model as the best-fitting model. Direct exposure and intentionality of the event were significant predictors of class membership; length of time since event and gender did not predict class membership.

CONCLUSIONS: The current study provides a potential explanation of the inconsistent results between PGI and PTSS and also highlights the importance of acknowledging subgroups when utilizing PGI after a PTE.

Language: en

Keywords

latent profile analysis; personal growth initiative; posttraumatic stress; trauma