Post-traumatic growth among cardiac outpatients: degree comparison with other chronic illness samples and correlates

J Health Psychol. 2010 Oct;15(7):1049-63. doi: 10.1177/1359105309360577. Epub 2010 May 14.

Abstract

This study evaluated the sociodemographic, clinical and behavioral correlates of post-traumatic growth (PTG) in coronary artery disease (CAD) patients, and the degree of PTG compared to other patient groups. Using a prospective design, 1497 CAD outpatients completed a survey assessing potential PTG correlates. A total of 1268 responded to a nine-month follow-up survey assessing PTG. Significant PTG correlates were being younger, non-white, having lower income, functional status, and depressive symptoms, greater social support, and positive illness perceptions. The degree of PTG was equivalent to that of cardiac patients in other countries, but was lower than that of breast cancer and multiple sclerosis patients.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological*
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Ambulatory Care*
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / psychology*
  • Chronic Disease / psychology*
  • Female
  • Health Surveys
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Outpatients
  • Prospective Studies