Experiência do luto e crescimento pós-traumático à luz da perspectiva da vinculação numa amostra de estudantes universitários

Abstract

The confrontation with the loss of a loved one can be a significant catalyst for the occurrence of Posttraumatic Growth (PTG). The Attachment Theory suggests that the way the individual adapts to the loss and the intensity of their reactions to bereavement is intrinsically linked to their pattern of attachment to others. It is thus imperative to evaluate the phenomenon of PTG in the extent of this theory. The main objective of this study was the evaluation of the PTG in a sample of university students who lost a loved one, in order to check if the growth rates are higher in subjects who lost one/both parent figures (Parental Group), compared to subjects who have lost other loved ones (Non-Parental Group). The purpose was also to evaluate if the quality of attachment predicts the intensity of the PTG. This research was further developed according to the following specific objectives: a) appraise whether there are differences in the rates of PTG when considering «time elapsed after loss», «cause of death», «seeking counseling after bereavement»; «emotional intensity of loss» and «presence of pathological grief», b) learn if there are differences in the rates of negative changes when considering the variable «degree of relatedness». The sample consisted of 213 university subjects and the instruments used were, in addiction to a Sociodemographic and Grief Questionnaire, the Inventory of PTG (Tedeschi & Calhoun, 1996; Portuguese version adapted by Resende et al., 2008); Escala de Mudanças Negativas Após o Trauma (Costa, 2008); Inventory of Complicated Grief (Prigerson et al., 1995; Portuguese version adapted by Delalibera, 2010) and Adult Attachment Scale (Collins & Read, 1990, Portuguese version adapted by Canavarro et al., 2006). The obtained results indicated that the subjects of the Parental Group experienced both high levels of PTG and negative changes after loss, compared to Non-Parental Group. Moreover, the time elapsed after the loss and emotional intensity triggered proved to be positively correlated with the levels of PTG. Unexpected death and seeking counseling variables have shown not to be associated with the growth experience. Regarding the variables that best predict the experience of PTG, the secure attachment proved to be the best predictor of higher levels of growth, and has also been proven that an insecure attachment style predicts lower levels of growth. This research has the contributory merit in changing the perspective focused exclusively on the pathology and negative consequences of loss, toward a healthier approach.

Date of Award	Apr 2012
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Rui Ramos (Supervisor)