Posttraumatic growth among burn patient family caregivers in China

Burns carries a high risk of severe physical damage, prolonged recovery, and mental health implications for both patients and their caregivers. While distress among caregivers of burn patients has been studied, less attention has been given to potential positive psychological changes. This study focuses on the prevalence, temporal dynamics, and predictors of posttraumatic growth (PTG) among caregivers.

A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 161 family caregivers from two Chinese burn units in 2016-2017. Participants completed a general information questionnaire and four measures: Posttraumatic Growth Inventory, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist, Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21, and Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support.

The PTG scores for caregivers, with an average of 59.8 (± 13.9), exhibited a curvilinear pattern over a period of 36 months, initially decreasing and then increasing. Multiple linear and quadratic regression analyses affirmed that heightened anxiety (p < 0.001), male gender (p < 0.05), college education (p < 0.05), and increased social support (p < 0.05) positively predicted family caregiver PTG.

This is the first study of burn injury caregiver PTG. The study indicates caregivers of burn patients may undergo positive psychological transformation. Variations in predictive factors necessitate validation through longitudinal research. The dynamic interplay of psychological outcomes between patients and caregivers requires further exploration.