Coexistence of Post-Traumatic Growth and Distress: Examining Latent Profiles of Homicidally and Naturally Bereaved Adults

While traumatic losses such as those caused by homicide have been associated with poorer mental health outcomes, there is substantial heterogeneity in bereavement experiences, including the coexistence of distress and wellbeing. In this study, we sought to identify profiles of bereaved individuals based on their similarities in symptom levels and wellbeing indicators and determine whether type of loss predicts profile membership. A total of 238 participants bereaved by homicide or illness completed measures of posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, prolonged grief disorder, post-traumatic growth, and life satisfaction. Latent profile analysis yielded profiles which were then compared based on psychosocial factors (fundamental beliefs, trauma coping self-efficacy and perceived social support). Three profiles emerged: a Low Distress–High Life Satisfaction profile (44.5%), a Moderate Distress–Moderate Life Satisfaction profile (37.4%) and a High Distress–Low Life Satisfaction profile (18.1%). Individuals bereaved by homicide were more likely to belong to the High Distress–Low Life Satisfaction profile. Profiles differed in fundamental beliefs, trauma coping self-efficacy and perceived social support. Levels of post-traumatic growth were equivalent across profiles. These findings suggest that post-traumatic growth can coexist with posttraumatic stress, depression and prolonged grief disorder. Clinical implications for fostering post-traumatic growth in bereaved individuals are discussed.