Author(s)

Michelle Redekop^*, Mitchell Clark

Department of Psychology, Mount Royal University, Calgary, Canada.

The concept of posttraumatic growth (PTG) suggests that the aftermath of difficult life experiences does not always pose negative consequences. In fact, there are positive outcomes, such as deepened relationships with others and a more positive self-image (Tedeschi & Calhoun, 2004). The current study assessed the relationship among difficult life experiences, mindfulness and posttraumatic growth. In order to explore the relationship among these concepts, 152 Mount Royal University students completed a battery of surveys on the current topics. Regression analyses revealed significant moderation effects for the mindfulness facets of observing, nonreacting and nonjudging. These results give some initial evidence for the life’s difficulties and PTG by using mindfulness skills. The interplay between PTG and mindfulness is relevant for clinicians dealing with populations with PTSD and adds to the literature on methods for encouraging growth.

Mindfulness, PTSD, Posttraumatic Growth, Positive Psychology

Redekop, M. and Clark, M. (2016) From Life’s Difficulties to Posttraumatic Growth: How Do We Get There?. Psychology, 7, 1451-1466. doi: 10.4236/psych.2016.712144.