POST-TRAUMATIC GROWTH AND MEANING-MAKING AMONG FLOOD SURVIVORS IN PAKISTAN

Abstract

Despite such devastation, some survivors report positive psychological growth, known as Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG), following the loss and damage to life and property brought on by flooding and other natural disasters. Therefore, this study aims to explore post-traumatic growth in Pakistani flood survivors in light of meaning-making. More specifically, the aim was to analyze the impact of social support on PTG. The theoretical framework will relate to the Meaning-Making Model by Park & Folkman, 1997 and the Post-Traumatic Growth Theory by Tedeschi & Calhoun, 1996. This non-experimental and quantitative approach utilized three validated measures: the Post-Traumatic Growth Inventory, Meaning in Life Questionnaire, and Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support. A total of 200 flood victims were analyzed using the methods of correlations, regression, and moderation approaches. Despite the devastating damage in the physical and economic environment and long-term psychological suffering as effects of the floods and other natural disasters, some survivors report positive psychological improvements. Called Post-Traumatic Growth or PTG, the current research investigates the relationship between meaning-making and PTG among Pakistani flood survivors, with particular attention to the effect of social support. Guided by the Meaning-Making Model - Park & Folkman (1997) - and the Post-Traumatic Growth Theory - Tedeschi & Calhoun (1996)-the quantitative approach was based on three internationally validated measures: the *Post-Traumatic Growth Inventory* - PTGI, the Meaning in Life Questionnaire - MLQ, and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support - MSPSS. Correlation, regression, and moderation approaches were applied to evaluate the data from 200 people affected by recent flooding. Counseling techniques can help survivors to reframe their horrific experiences as opportunities for growth rather than lifelong setbacks. Approaching social and cultural dimensions of support, such as community efforts, spiritual means of coping with stress, and extended family contacts, may enhance psychological healing after disasters. This study advances our understanding of post-traumatic adjustment in the Pakistani context by highlighting the importance of the interplay between cognitive and social elements in the process of healing.

Keywords: Flood survivors, counseling psychology, social assistance, meaning-making, post-traumatic growth, Pakistan