Zerach, G. (2020). Posttraumatic growth among combat veterans and their siblings: A dyadic approach. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 76(9), 1719-1735. https://doi.org/10.1002/jclp.22949

Although posttraumatic stress symptoms (e.g., intense emotional experiences, intrusive thoughts of the trauma) are challenging for Service members and their families, beneficial personal growth can occur after traumatic events. This phenomenon is called posttraumatic growth and can be evidenced through improved perceptions of the self, healthier personal relationships, and a greater appreciation for life. Secondary posttraumatic growth may also occur in the lives of close family members (e.g., siblings), but the degree to which this growth occurs may be influenced by the quality of the relationship (e.g., warmth, sibling rivalry). This study examined the associations among posttraumatic stress symptoms, sibling relationship quality, and posttraumatic growth in a sample of 106 Israeli Veterans and their siblings (N = 212). Notably, almost 80% of the Veterans and siblings lived together during the Veteran’s military service. Siblings who experienced secondary posttraumatic stress symptoms connected to the Veteran’s military experiences often experienced secondary posttraumatic growth.

Posttraumatic growth among combat veterans and their siblings: A dyadic approach

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