Perceptions of Reactions to Trauma Disclosure and Posttraumatic Growth

This dissertation explores the associations between trauma disclosure likelihood, perceptions of positive and negative social reactions to trauma disclosure, trauma impact, trauma type, and posttraumatic growth (PTG). The study aimed to clarify the ability of these variables to predict PTG, with a particular focus on the mediating roles of positive and negative social reactions to trauma disclosure in the relationship between trauma disclosure likelihood and PTG. Using a cross-sectional design, data were gathered from 184 participants recruited primarily through an undergraduate participant pool, as well as through various trauma-related organizations and online forums. The findings suggest survivors of Type 2 trauma were less likely to disclose their trauma to others and experienced less PTG compared to those who experienced a Type 1 trauma. Additionally, findings suggest that a positive association exists between likelihood of disclosing one’s most impactful trauma and PTG, even while controlling for positive social reactions to trauma disclosure. However, contrary to hypotheses, neither positive social reactions to trauma disclosure nor negative social reactions to trauma disclosure mediated the relationship between trauma disclosure likelihood and PTG; no evidence for mediation was found when these mediators were considered independently or as parallel mediators. These results underscore the importance of survivors disclosing their trauma to safe and supportive individuals who can provide positive social reactions. Additionally, special care should be given to survivors of Type 2 trauma, as they may require additional support to facilitate PTG. This study contributes to a broader understanding of the intricate relationship between social support, trauma disclosure, and PTG, emphasizing the complex interplay between trauma type, disclosure processes, and social reactions to trauma disclosure.