Posttraumatic Growth Experiences of Displaced Hurricane Maria Survivors Transitioning to Permanent Housing
Date of Conferral
11-7-2023
Degree
Ph.D.
School
Human Services
Advisor
Nicole Hamilton
Abstract
Natural disasters such as floods, hurricanes, or wars can significantly impact the world’s population and cause displacement from their homes or even their country. According to recent studies, 4.5 million natural disaster survivors were displaced in America in 1 year. Previous research regarding displaced survivors of natural disasters illuminated essential findings; however, there was limited research that explored their growth experiences after trauma. This qualitative study aimed to explore the posttraumatic growth (PTG) experiences of adult survivors of Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico as they transitioned to permanent housing. Using a generic qualitative design, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 10 adult displaced survivors who were fluent in English. The theoretical framework used was Tedeschi and Calhoun’s PTG theory with five tenants: (1) an increased appreciation for life, (2) meaningful relationships with others, (3) an increased sense of personal strength, (4) new possibilities, and (5) spiritual and existential matters. The data were analyzed using Braun and Clarks’ six-step thematic analysis process. The results highlighted that, within the chaos and upheaval left in the hurricane’s wake, the participants’ stories expose an extraordinary capacity for PTG. For positive social change, practitioners can incorporate PTG-focused approaches into therapy, and develop training programs. Local, state, federal, and international policymakers, emergency responders, and stakeholders can develop strategies to address resource and psychological needs in affected communities. Future research should include longitudinal, comparative, and quantitative studies, as well as investigations into resilience factors, cultural influences, and interventions tailored to fostering PTG.
Recommended Citation
Strong, Nerissa, "Posttraumatic Growth Experiences of Displaced Hurricane Maria Survivors Transitioning to Permanent Housing" (2023). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 15096.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/15096
