Parental post-traumatic stress and post-traumatic growth for children with acquired brain injury: the role of attachment style and injury severity

Pediatric Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) profoundly impacts individuals and families, underscoring the critical role of parental well-being in the child’s rehabilitation. This study explores the relationship between Post-Traumatic Stress (PTS) and Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG) among parents of children with ABI, focusing on attachment styles and injury severity. A cross-sectional study was conducted with parents of 35 children after ABI. Data collection of attachment style, PTS, PTG and injury severity, utilized questionnaires and medical records. Analyses through Pearson correlations and linear regression revealed a positive association between parental PTG and PTS, with attachment styles and injury severity independently associated with these outcomes. Both avoidant and anxious attachment styles, along with injury severity, were significantly associated with PTS severity, while injury severity alone was associated with PTG. Increased injury severity correlated with elevated PTS symptoms and PTG manifestations. These findings suggest pediatric ABI may lead to both adverse and positive psychological outcomes for parents. Results highlight the importance of identifying parents at risk for PTS and providing appropriate support. Furthermore, promoting PTG may benefit parents, and in turn may enhance the child’s rehabilitation process. Tailored interventions, considering attachment styles and injury severity, are critical for addressing parental needs and promoting overall well-being.