Female survivor's post-traumatic growth journey following intimate partner violence : Emphasizing facilitating factors and main obstacles

Abstract

Aim: The overarching aim of the doctoral thesis was to explore and define the components of th PTG journey of Icelandic female IPV survivors, emphasizing the main obstacles and facilitators, and to synthesize a theory of that journey. Methods: Study I and II were phenomenological studies where twenty-two female IPV survivors participated. In Study III theory synthesis was used to develop the theory. Results: Eight main components of the PTG journey of female IPV survivors were identified, which became the building blocks of the theory of their journey. Eleven main facilitators and fourteen main obstacles were identified, some of them influencing the participants' experience of PTG. Though theorized as a one-way process, PTG is a nonlinear, fluid state and regression, should be considered. According to the theory, a woman enjoying PTG is aware of the possibility of such regression, she knows how to react to it and is aware that she will regain her wellbeing, enjoying her PTG. She also knows the importance of maintaining her PTG. Conclusions: The findings indicate that PTG is a real possibility for female IPV survivors, being likely to improve their welfare and quality of life, as well as the wellbeing of their children, loved ones, and community, thereby decreasing the damaging effects of IPV. Therefore, the importance of aiming for PTG should be emphasized. These findings are a unique contribution to this field of research, due to a gap in the literature in the field. Further research is needed to establish the components affecting the PTG journey of female IPV survivors of as well as the main obstacles and facilitators on that journey.