Exploring Post-Traumatic Growth Among Young Adults Coping With Parental Loss: The Role of Resilience and of Willingness to Seek Psychological Help

Abstract

This study examined the roles of resilience and willingness to seek psychological help in influencing Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG) among 173 emerging adults who experienced parental loss during their school years. A positive relationship was found between resilience, the willingness to seek psychological help, and PTG. Participants who endured loss over five years prior manifested increased PTG (New-Possibilities, Spiritual Change, and Appreciation of Life sub-scales) relative to those with more recent losses. The multiple regression model was notable, accounting for 33% of the variance in PTG. Both resilience and the willingness to seek psychological help assistance significantly predicted PTG, surpassing other predictors in the model. It is worth noting that the type of loss, whether sudden or anticipated, did not alter PTG levels. In essence, this study underscores the enduring positive psychological impact of parental loss on emerging adults, highlighting the critical need for comprehensive psychological resources and support for such individuals.