What does posttraumatic growth mean to Chinese burn patients: a phenomenological study

The purpose of this research was to explore dimensions of posttraumatic growth (PTG) in the population of mainland China and to find out the factors facilitating positive change. Ten patients with severe burn injuries were recruited from a metropolitan hospital in Shanghai. Sampling was purposive; qualitative phenomenological methodology was used to depict the main theme, the data were collected through individual semi-structured interviews using open-ended questions. A reflective diary was also kept. The findings are presented under two thematic headings: "process of PTG" and "presentation of PTG." Results indicate that there are commonalities between the Chinese sample and Tedeschi and Calhoun's (Psychol Inq 2004;15:1-18) model of the process and outcomes of PTG. There are some differences; specifically, "for the significant others" is an important facet in the process of PTG; also there is no clear growth of a spiritual or a religious aspect.