Degree Date

6-2027

Document Type

Dissertation - Public Access

Degree Name

Psy.D. Doctor of Clinical Psychology

Academic Discipline

Clinical Psychology

First Advisor

Bradley Olson, Ph.D.

Second Advisor

Sandra Zakowski, Ph.D.

Third Advisor

Varalakshmi Saripalli, PsyD.

Abstract

Veterans returning from combat often face psychological challenges, but many also experience posttraumatic growth (PTG), which refers to positive changes that can emerge after trauma. This study explored whether coping strategies, personal characteristics, social support, and combat exposure were associated with PTG in a sample of 42 war zone veterans using quantitative and qualitative methods. Participants completed validated measures assessing combat exposure, coping strategies, social support, personal characteristics (e.g., optimism), and PTG. Regression analyses showed that combat exposure, coping strategies, and optimism were not significant predictors of overall PTG. However, combat exposure was associated with appreciation for life, a dimension of posttraumatic growth, and veterans who reported greater combat exposure were more likely to use emotion-focused coping and self-blame coping. Age was the only significant predictor of PTG, with older veterans reporting higher levels of growth. Qualitative responses highlighted themes of appreciation for life, personal strength, and changes in perspective shaped by war experiences. These findings suggest that growth after trauma may develop gradually over time as individuals reflect on their experiences and find meaning in them. This study adds to the growing literature by identifying areas that may help support healing and resilience in military populations.

View Full Text

Share

COinS