Trauma and Transformation: Growing in the Aftermath of Suffering

by Richard G. Tedeschi, Lawrence G. Calhoun

That personal growth often occurs in people who have experienced traumatic events is an acknowledged but under-researched phenomenon. This book fills the the authors use a cognitive framework to explore this finding, focusing upon changes in belief systems reported by trauma survivors. Tedeschi and Calhoun weave together literature from fields as diverse as philosophy, religion and psychology, and incorporate major research findings into the effect of trauma. With case examples from the authors′ research and clinical work, information is presented in a manner accessible to clinicians. In addition, one chapter is written specifically for trauma survivors.

Genres: Psychology

175 pages, Hardcover

First published June 20, 1995

Reviews

[Kris · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first book to flesh out their theory of post traumatic growth. Good primer.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tedeschi and Calhoun's brilliant book on the positive outcomes of coping with crisis, also known as posttraumatic growth. Drawing from religion, philosophy, and psychology, their cognitive model provides a conceptual framework in wwhich the changes in trauma survivors' belief systems can be understood. They are inspiring researchers and psychologists, and I highly recommend this book for anyone interested in this subject.

"It is not peace of mind that brings us to wholeness, but struggle and conflict, and spiritual enlightenment occurs only when a person has been through dark and disturbing trials of the soul."