Combat Experiences: A Phenomenological Study of Behavioral Indicators and Facilitative Approaches for Posttraumatic Growth among Veterans
Keywords:
Combat experiences, Posttraumatic growth, VeteransAbstract
This study aimed to (1) explore behavioral indicators of posttraumatic growth (PTG) among veterans and (2) examine facilitative approaches to promoting PTG following exposure to combat-related trauma. A qualitative phenomenological design was employed. Key informants included 12 Thai veterans who had experienced traumatic events in combat or conflict-related situations, and 5 experts with experience in veteran care. Participants were recruited using purposive sampling. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis, involving the extraction of significant statements, formulation of meanings, and identification of core themes.
The findings revealed five major themes reflecting behavioral indicators of PTG among veterans: (1) Appreciation of life, (2) Relating to others, (3) Personal strength, (4) New Possibilities, and (5) Spiritual and existential change. In addition, three key facilitative approaches for fostering PTG were identified: (1) establishing psychological safety and present-moment awareness, (2) cognitive processing and restructuring, and (3) meaning-making through narrative reconstruction. These findings may contribute to the development of trauma-informed psychological interventions aimed at fostering PTG among veterans following traumatic experiences.
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