Light at the end of the tunnel; posttraumatic growth among individuals exposed to flood 2010 in Pakistan

ABSTRACT

To explore the stress- related growth experienced by the individuals exposed to the highly stressful and traumatic floods in Pakistan began on July 27[th], 2010. Qualitative Study Communities of the flood affected areas, from June 2011 to December 2011 Sample included 300 participants, who were affected in flood in Pakistan that began on July 27[th], 2010, following heavy monsoon rains. Age range of the participants was from 13 to 55 [M = 27.45, SD = 6.94] years, with equal participation of male and females. Twenty Focus group discussions [FGD][5] and 30 key informant interviews [KII] were conducted to gather the information. Each FGD was consisted of approximately 12 respondents. The positive changes were reported to occur in five domains of an individual life including, recognizing new possibilities, perceiving personal strength, increasing spiritual sense, improving relationship, and appreciation of life. The significance of understanding this concept of Posttraumatic Growth helps the mental health professionals in devising the intervention strategies, while keeping in mind the positive changes and strengths of the community