Between the Sense of Loss and Posttraumatic Growth: The Role of Self-Esteem and Initiator Status

Abstract

ABSTRACT Previous studies have suggested that certain protective factors play a role in post-divorce adaptation and result in positive changes. Nevertheless, findings concerning the initiator status and other psychological factors responsible for experiencing posttraumatic growth after divorce remain inconclusive. Our research aims to assess the significance of the sense of loss associated with divorce for posttraumatic growth in divorced women while also accounting for the moderating role of self-esteem and the initiator status. The cross-sectional study was performed on a sample of 110 Polish divorced women. Hierarchical regression and three-way interaction analysis were used. Self-esteem and the initiator status moderate the relationship between the sense of loss and posttraumatic growth. The results indicate non-initiators experience less posttraumatic growth owing to the sense of loss and depending on their self-esteem level. The dynamics of self-esteem and divorce circumstances and their importance for growth after divorce were discussed.