Young People's Journeys of Recovery From Trauma: A Qualitative Study of Narratives From Internet Forums

Objectives: The present study aimed to address to the dearth of research into the phenomenology of recovery among young people exposed to trauma. Method: Using an interpretative phenomenological approach, we analyzed Internet forum data to consider how young people experience recovery from trauma. Results: Five domains of recovery were identified: meaningful shifts in the sense of self, gaining control and autonomy, establishing hope and commitment, making meaning out of tragedy, and engaging in normative activities and connecting with others. Participants described the experience of recovery as an ongoing, nonlinear and dialectical process that was not synonymous with cure and often took place in the context of supportive relationships. Conclusions: While the broad themes of recovery align with those derived from adult literature, the accounts diverge with respect to the content within the domains themselves. The findings suggest that services oriented to trauma-exposed young people need to bolster these internal processes of change, while also attending to their specific developmental needs and capacities. Clinical Impact Statement Results suggest that mental health professionals should support self-exploratory change processes in trauma-exposed young people, delivering care in ways that emphasize parts of the self that are experiencing adaptive growth, rather than narrowly focusing on dysfunction. Further, given the influence of the family on the young person's sense of normality and the significance of supportive relationships in recovery, educating caregivers on the importance of providing validating responses and supporting the young person's sense of control and autonomy is paramount.

Automated summary

This study identified five domains of recovery among young people exposed to trauma, emphasizing that recovery is an ongoing, nonlinear process often occurring in the context of supportive relationships. Findings suggest that services should focus on bolstering internal processes of change while attending to the specific developmental needs and capacities of young people.