CIPSRT | Posttraumatic growth (PTG)

Glossary of Terms

Posttraumatic growth (PTG) is currently not listed as a diagnosis in the DSM-5-TR or ICD-11.
PTG refers to the positive personal changes that may result from a person’s struggle to manage the consequences of being exposed to one or more potentially psychologically traumatic events.
The positive personal changes of PTG may include a new appreciation for life and future possibilities, a newfound sense of personal strength, improved relationships with others (e.g. a new focus on helping others), and spiritual or existential change.
PTG is not merely bouncing back to pre-trauma levels of functioning, but includes positive growth beyond pre-trauma levels of functioning and well-being.

Posttraumatic growth (PTG) is currently not listed as a diagnosis in either the DSM-5-TR or the ICD-11.
PTG refers to positive personal changes that may result from an individual working to cope with the psychological consequences of exposure to one or more potentially psychologically traumatic events.
Major dimensions of PTG include enhancement of relationships (e.g. increased empathy, humility, and altruism); changes in self-perception (e.g. of personal resiliency, strength); increased acceptance of vulnerability and limitations; changes in life philosophy (e.g. re-evaluating what’s important); and spiritual or existential change.^56,57
PTG is not merely reverting to pre-trauma levels of functioning, but experiencing positive growth beyond those pre-trauma levels of functioning.
PTG and posttraumatic stress can occur simultaneously.