Abstract (eng)
Dealing with negative or highly positive life events can lead to positive, psychological changes in the individuals involved. Factors influencing posttraumatic or postecstatic growth are diverse (Bhat & Chakrawarty, 2018; Calhoun & Tedeschi, 1998, 2006; Roepke, 2013; Tedeschi & Calhoun, 1996). Consequently, the intention of the present work is to investigate influences, such as personality traits and event characteristics, on both forms of growth. In addition to events and growth, the Big Five personality traits, resilience, dispositional optimism, and event characteristics were surveyed. The survey took the form of an online questionnaire, which 231 German-speaking individuals answered. The results showed no associations between demographic data and growth. However, associations were found with some of the Big Five personality traits, resilience, and dispositional optimism. A moderating effect between negative life event valence and posttraumatic growth was observed for neuroticism. Extraversion moderated the relationship between the degree of positivity of the experience and postecstatic growth. Furthermore, significant associations were found between the event traits valence and change in world view and posttraumatic growth. Posttraumatic growth was related to change in world view and potential for change. Moderator effects regarding to posttraumatic growth could be identified for the event characteristics challenge, threat, (re)adjustment and harm. Regarding to postecstatic growth, moderator effects were found for emotional importance and change potential. According to the study design, no statement can be made as to whether the personality and event characteristics are a prerequisite for the occurrence of growth or a consequence of the event.