The subjective experience of creativity and posttraumatic growth after the loss of a loved one

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to explore the subjective experience of creativity and posttraumatic growth (PTG) after an adult had lost a loved one, and to explore whether creativity might contribute to PTG. Creativity is seen as the ability of an individual to develop novel and pioneering ideas. Ordinary people incorporate creativity to overcome everyday problems, this is regarded as everyday creativity. PTG is the process of people being faced with trauma, but then grow in the aftermath of it. This is further described in a literature review that had been performed. The compulsory approval was obtained from the Research Committee, as well as the Board of Faculties of North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus. Each participant also gave their verbal and written consent regarding their participation in the study. The participants ranged from 20 years to 26 years of age, and males as well as females were included. The races represented in this study were black, coloured and white. A qualitative approach was followed in which semi-structured interviews were conducted with these participants. The two questions posed were: Which, if any, aspects of thinking about life in new ways did you experience as a result of losing a loved one and How did these new ways of thinking possibly relate or contribute to a sense of change in yourself? Upon receiving answers to these questions the researcher probed further. The data were then analysed according to Braun and Clarke`s linear model. The results of the study showed that PTG had taken place after the loss of their loved ones. The areas in which the participants mentioned the most growth are: They had gained a sense of maturation in which they feel they have more responsibilities and they feel as if they now were more resilient. Then they incorporate more emotional support, as well as give more emotional and financial support, and they also report taking part in community service activities. Furthermore, the participants also reported an increase in self-awareness, and they now have a better understanding of what their needs are, and in addition to this they experience a heightened spiritual awareness. They also try to find meaning for the trauma, and have a deeper appreciation for life and their loved ones. The last theme that emerged is the idea that participants feel humbled. From the results it is clear that participants do attempt creative expeditions in order to grow. This is seen in the two aspects of creative problem solving which links up with the area of PTG in the heightened sense of maturation as well as feeling more resilient. The other aspect of creativity is that of spirituality, which could contribute to PTG