Growth and Post-Traumatic Stress inFirefighters

This study aims to analyze the impact of social and organizational support on the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and post-traumatic growth (PTG) in firefighters who have experienced a potentially traumatic event at work. The study involved 83 military firefighters. The data were analyzed using descriptive, association, and intergroup comparison statistics. The results indicated that the firefighters had low levels of PTSD and moderate levels of PTG. Those who were exposed to multiple adverse events and whose exposure occurred more recently were more susceptible to PTSD. Social support showed a positive, moderate association with PTG. However, none of the supports showed an association with PTSD. Additionally, a positive and moderate association was observed between PTSD and PTG. It was concluded that potentially traumatic events can cause suffering but also positive changes, and that firefighters experience a more positive outcome when they have social support.