Date of Award

Spring 5-18-2019

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

MA - Master of Arts

Department

Mindfulness Studies

First Advisor

Nancy Waring

Second Advisor

Melissa Jean

Abstract

Posttraumatic growth is an emerging field of study that has garnered world-wide attention for its valuable influence on our lives. Posttraumatic growth involves experiencing positive change and transformation as a result of successful coping skills in the aftermath of a traumatic event. An individual’s struggle with a “new reality” that occurs following an extremely stressful situation is the central element that generates growth. There are numerous attributes associated with posttraumatic growth that cultivate a foundation of body, mind, and spirit including personality characteristics, cognitive factors, social support, and religion and spirituality. Mindfulness, the ability to be in the present moment in a non-judgmental way, is gaining traction as a useful tool to support the development of characteristics associated with posttraumatic growth. This thesis provides a comprehensive description of trauma, the foundations of posttraumatic growth, and the role of mindfulness and self-compassion in terms of thriving and renewed growth with particular emphasis on veterans. It explores the impact mindfulness applications can have on fostering and strengthening certain qualities associated with posttraumatic growth. This thesis hopes to provide a compelling argument for the use of mindfulness and self-compassion as important tools to help veterans develop characteristics of posttraumatic growth.

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License.

Language

English

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