The impact of conflict exposure and social support on posttraumatic growth among the young adults in Kashmir The impact of conflict exposure and social support on posttraumatic growth among the young adults in Kashmir

Abstract

Abstract: This study examined the effect of social support and conflict exposure on posttraumatic growth (PTG) among the young adults who have been exposed to stressful experiences regarding the armed conflict in Kashmir. The aim of the study is to explore PTG in this population and its association with conflict exposure and perceived social support. This is a cross-sectional study involving 803 college students. The data were collected by four self-report instruments comprising of demographic data schedule, the exposure to Kashmir conflict checklist, the posttraumatic growth inventory and the multidimensional scale of perceived social support. The respondents reported relatively high levels of PTG and social support. Conflict exposure and total perceived social support were significantly associated with an increase in PTG. Formulation of programmes to sensitize people living in conflict zones about the importance of PTG and social support in buffering negative outcomes can help lessen their stress, increase their ability to withstand adversities and help them move towards personal growth