Post-Traumatic Growth in U.S. Veterans: A Multifaceted Examination of Racial and Ethnic Variations

Abstract

Abstract Background and Purpose: While many researchers have examined posttraumatic growth (PTG) in various contexts, exploring the influence of race/ethnicity on PTG in the U.S. military, veterans require more in-depth investigation. This study investigates racial and ethnic differences in PTG among trauma-exposed U.S. military veterans. The main research questions are: 1) How do PTG total and subscale scores differ by race/ethnicity (i.e., White, Black, Hispanic veterans) among trauma-exposed veterans? 2) Does race/ethnicity moderate the associations between PTG and factors associated with PTG (cumulative trauma exposure, PTSD, psychosocial and personality characteristics, coping strategy, social support, religiosity/spirituality) in trauma-exposed veterans?Methods: This study draws data from the nationally representative National Health and Resilience in Veterans Study (NHRVS). Focusing on trauma-exposed veterans, the study sample consisted of 3,071 non-Hispanic White veterans, 293 Hispanic veterans, and 259 Black veterans. This study uses descriptive and inferential statistics to examine the relationship between PTG and psychosocial and personality factors. Furthermore, this study addresses whether the relationship between PTG and psychosocial factors or personality characteristics varied depending on the racial/ethnic background of the veterans. Results: This study identifies significant racial and ethnic disparities in PTG outcomes. Key findings reveal that cumulative trauma exposure, PTSD severity, and psychosocial factors such as resilience and coping strategies are critical predictors of PTG, with notable variations across racial and ethnic groups. Black veterans, in particular, with fewer PTSD symptoms, have a stronger link between PTG and PTSD. The substantially higher PTG scores among Black veterans suggested unique strengths or coping mechanisms within this population. Potential explanations could include the historical resilience and cultural strengths cultivated within Black communities, such as a strong sense of community support, spirituality, and collective coping strategies. Additionally, experiences of historical adversity and systemic racism may have equipped Black veterans with enhanced coping skills and resilience, contributing to higher levels of PTG. Conclusions and Implications: The study's results underscore the importance of race and ethnicity as moderating factors in the relationship between trauma and PTG, challenging the one-size-fits-all approach in mental health interventions for veterans. By highlighting these differences, this research contributes to developing more tailored, culturally sensitive therapeutic strategies to enhance psychological recovery and growth in diverse veteran populations. The implications extend to clinical social work, emphasizing the need for customized interventions that address the unique experiences of minority veterans.