Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 10, 2026

Polar Histogram Visualization of Acute Stress Disorder Scale Scores for Comprehensive Clinical Assessment
Published on: December 6, 2024
Exploring posttraumatic growth in children impacted by Hurricane Katrina: correlates of the phenomenon and
Ryan P Kilmer1, Virginia Gil-Rivas
1Department of Psychology, The University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28223-0001, USA. rpkilmer@uncc.edu
Abstract:
This study explored posttraumatic growth (PTG), positive change resulting from struggling with trauma, among 7- to 10-year-olds impacted by Hurricane Katrina. Analyses focused on child self-system functioning and cognitive processes, and the caregiving context, in predicting PTG at 2 time points (Time 1 n = 66, Time 2 n = 51). Findings suggest that rumination, both negative, distressing thoughts and constructive, repetitive thinking, plays an important role in PTG. Hypotheses regarding future expectations and perceived competence were not fully supported, and, unexpectedly, coping competency beliefs, realistic control attributions, and perceived caregiver warmth did not contribute to PTG models. With 1 exception (positive reframing coping advice), caregiver-reported variables did not relate to PTG; no caregiver variable reached significance in final models. Relevant theory, developmental considerations, and future directions are discussed.
Related Concept Videos
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
Symptoms and Behavioral Manifestations
A spectrum of distressing symptoms characterizes PTSD. Recurrent flashbacks, where individuals involuntarily relive traumatic events, are a...
Introduction to Stress and Lifestyle
Bonanno's Theory of Grieving
Resilience
The resilience...
Traumatic Brain Injury l: Introduction
Attachment Styles
Self-Evaluation: Self-Enhancement and Self-Verification
