Posttraumatic growth of Chinese burn patients: Prevalence, comparison, and predictors

The positive psychological transformation following burns, in contrast to the well-documented negative impacts, remains under-researched, particularly in lower-middle income countries (LMICs). Existing studies predominantly focus on high-income countries. This study examines the prevalence of posttraumatic growth (PTG) among Chinese adult burn patients, explores cross-cultural differences in PTG manifestation, and identifies predictors of PTG in this population.

We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of 132 adult patients recruited from two burn units in China. Assessments included the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory, Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scales-21, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist, and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support. Univariate and multivariate models were employed to evaluate potential influencing factors.

The mean PTG score among the Chinese burn patients was 56.7 ± 25.0. Within this cohort, 46 % and 74 % of patients scored above the moderate level, depending on thresholds of 63 and 48, respectively. Model analysis identified significant positive associations between PTG and both increased social support and higher levels of depression. Additionally, time since injury and higher educational attainment were noteworthy predictors, with effects approaching statistical significance.

This study is the first to present data on both negative and positive psychological conditions among Chinese burn patients, revealing their interrelationship. The findings confirm the applicability of PTG models in LMICs and suggest cross-cultural differences in PTG compared to high-income nations. Increased social support and higher depression levels were significantly associated with PTG, while time since injury and educational attainment showed notable, albeit marginal, predictive value. These insights contribute to a valuable understanding of psychological growth pathways in LMICs.