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Updated: Jun 4, 2026

A Modified Trier Social Stress Test for Vulnerable Mexican American Adolescents
Published on: July 10, 2017
[Does trauma help teenagers to "grow up"?]
Héloïse Marichez1, Agathe Benoit De Coignac, Olvier Taïeb
1Hôpital Avicenne, AP-HP, Bobigny (93), Université Paris 13. heloise.marichez@avc.aphp.fr
Trauma can lead to distress, but post-traumatic growth offers potential for positive change and maturity, particularly in teenagers. Further research is needed to fully understand this phenomenon and its limitations.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Trauma Studies
- Adolescent Development
Background:
- Traumatic events can result in prolonged distress and invalidating experiences.
- Post-traumatic growth (PTG) is a concept suggesting positive psychological changes following adversity.
- Adolescents are a key demographic experiencing trauma and potentially PTG.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the concept of post-traumatic growth in adolescents.
- To investigate the potential for positive transformation after trauma.
- To examine the boundaries and limitations of post-traumatic growth.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on post-traumatic growth.
- Analysis of theoretical frameworks of trauma and resilience.
- Qualitative or quantitative studies on adolescent trauma survivors (details not provided in abstract).
Main Results:
- Trauma can be a catalyst for personal maturation and positive life changes.
- Adolescents may exhibit significant post-traumatic growth.
- The extent and nature of PTG vary among individuals.
Conclusions:
- Post-traumatic growth is a significant area of study following traumatic experiences.
- Understanding PTG in adolescents requires further in-depth research.
- The concept's limitations must be considered alongside its benefits.
Related Concept Videos
Cognitive Development During Adolescence
Traumatic Memory
Introduction to Stress and Lifestyle
Self-Evaluation: Self-Enhancement and Self-Verification
Erikson's Theory on Socioemotional Development during Adolescence
Ethnic Identity within a Larger Culture

