The relationship of personality, spirituality and post-traumatic growth to subjective wellbeing

Abstract

Posttraumatic growth is the positive psychological change experienced from one’s struggle with challenging life events. Studies on the subject have found that for many, life ultimately becomes more meaningful. In this cross-sectional correlational study among university students (N=194), we investigated their perceived stress, past traumas, wellbeing, faith maturity, positive and negative affect, and personality. Past traumas included loss of a loved one, chronic illness, injury, divorce, violent crime, and job loss, amongst others. In examining the patterns of correlations, a hierarchical multiple regression analysis was employed. Posttraumatic growth was found to have unique variance even after partialling out key variables. Although situational factors and personality did play important roles, this study clearly points at the relevance of faith maturity for the promotion of holistic well-being of those affected by trauma. Religious beliefs may counter hopelessness and form an important buffer in this equation. The psycho-social implications were discussed.