Posttraumatic Growth in Latina Immigrants

Abstract

This study used a Spanish version of the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory to examine the extent to which Latinas report post-traumatic growth (PTG) following the stressful experiences of immigration and explored demographic, stress-related and social context correlates of this growth (N = 100). Findings indicate a moderate level of stress and a high level of PTG but no association between stress and growth variables. Level of stressfulness was related to type of separation and to participation in counseling. Overall, posttraumatic growth was related to participation in counseling and the Philosophy of Life factor was related to the importance of religion. Findings support using a strength perspective to study and service Latina immigrants.