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

Abstract

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 pl..