Coping strategies as a predictor of post traumatic growth among selected female young adult victims of childhood sexual abuse in Kerala, India

Pages: 236-240
Nancy George and Lucila O. Bance (Department of Clinical Psychology, Graduate School, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines)

The present study examines the possible predictive effects of coping strategies on post traumatic growth (PTG) among the female young adult victims of childhood sexual abuse (CSA) who are in Nirbhaya shelter homes. Eighty-seven participants aged from 15-24 years belong to Nirbhaya homes in Kerala, India were involved in this study. The Brief COPE scale and Post Traumatic Growth Inventory were used to assess the variables and correlational research method was used in the study. The results of the study show that the female young adult victims of CSA using adaptive coping strategies experience comparatively high level of PTG and the increased use of dysfunctional coping practices reduce the level of positive changes after the traumatic event. Furthermore, the study also examines the predictive influence of coping strategies on PTG. This study affirms the necessity of a culturally adapted psychological intervention program to enhance coping strategies and PTG among the female young adult victims of CSA.