Citation

Richardson KM. J. Loss Trauma 2016; 21(1): 1-15.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2016, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/15325024.2015.1024558

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This paper examines the relationship between social support and posttraumatic growth (PTG) among a sample of 55 widows who lost their firefighter husbands in the 9/11 World Trade Center attacks. Data revealed that 73% gathered informally with other 9/11 widows in the years following the attacks and 55% participated in one-on-one therapy.

RESULTS found PTG was related to attending an FDNY-sponsored support group (r =.37), one-on-one therapy (r =.37), and socializing with other FDNY widows (r =.29). Qualitative responses suggested the primary benefits of informal peer support were a shared understanding of grief, close companionship, and emotional strength.

Language: en