College of Science and Health Theses and Dissertations

Date of Award

Summer 8-24-2024

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Kathryn Grant, PhD

Second Advisor

Leonard Jason, PhD

Third Advisor

Jocelyn Carter, PhD

Abstract

Experiencing a significant loss can be one of the most challenging life experiences. The adverse effects of bereavement can disrupt a person’s overall health and well-being. While it is essential to fully acknowledge the negative outcomes of bereavement, it is equally important to recognize the potential for posttraumatic growth (PTG) following such experiences. PTG has been consistently observed in adults who have experienced various traumas, yet there is still much to learn about PTG among adolescents. Given that death is one of the most stressful life events for youth, bereaved adolescents are a crucial population for examining PTG. Those living in urban areas are of particular concern due to their heightened exposure to community violence, which can increase susceptibility to traumatic events and experiences of loss. Having support during times of trauma and loss can help reduce psychological distress. Therefore, to gain a better understanding of growth processes amid the death of a loved one, this study examines the types of social support received by an urban adolescent population.

A total of 408 adolescents (46.6% male; 53.4% female) in grades six through 12 participated in this study, recruited from three urban schools. Data collection included the Post Traumatic Growth Measure for the growth outcome variable, the Losing People in the Past measure to assess students’ experiences of loss, and the Places I Spend Time measure to assess social support. Hierarchical linear regression analysis was used to assess multiple supportive social environments on PTG outcomes in the context of bereavement. The results indicated that home social support significantly predicted growth across all five PTG domains. In contrast, school and faith-based settings (e.g., churches, mosques, or other religious settings) also predicted PTG outcomes but to a lesser extent. The interaction between social support and bereavement was not significant across the models. These findings underscore the pivotal role of home environments in fostering PTG among urban adolescents, suggesting that strengthening home-based support systems is important, especially in settings where youth face compounded stressors. Future research should explore the longitudinal effects of support and additional contextual factors to better understand the dynamics of PTG in this population.

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