Narrative Reconstruction and Post-traumatic Growth: The Importance of Narrative in Sociological Research and Practice

• In Event: 123 - Section on Social Psychology Refereed Roundtable Session (co-sponsored with Section on Sociology of Emotions and Section on Sociology of Mental Health).
  In Refereed Roundtable 100min: Table 03. Emotions/Emotion Management

Abstract

Although theoretical work on meaning-making processes emphasizes the importance of assisting survivors in reconstructing their personal narratives in the aftermath of trauma, the relationship between trauma survivors’ (re-)construction of a coherent life narrative and their development of posttraumatic growth has rarely been explored. In this study, I conducted life story interviews with 46 university students with trauma histories to examine: 1) How, and to what degree, trauma survivors (re-)construct a coherent life narrative; 2) How this process is connected to the development of posttraumatic growth; and 3) How survivors’ post-trauma narratives are shaped by socio-cultural factors. I found that survivors who are able to articulate a coherent story about their lives experience more posttraumatic growth, and I identified key characteristics of three stages of post-trauma change. I argue that some narratives are easier to reconstruct than others because not all narratives are equally valued in society. The presence or absence of narratives in the discursive environment, the reception these stories receive within society, and the access that individuals have to these narratives is influenced by social norms, politics, and individuals’ locations in the social structure. To promote empowerment and social justice, clinical and applied sociologists should help trauma survivors to reconstruct their life stories, create spaces for devalued stories, and validate clients’ emerging narratives.

Author

• Sarah L. Jirek, Westmont College