Trauma

The experience or perception of trauma has an indelible effect on the individual. Self-concept and self-esteem are often impacted by trauma. A trauma survivor may completely alter self-perception and self-image. Trauma can also alter worldviews or cause existential angst. Moreover, survivors of trauma may develop psychological disorders such as depression. In a study by David, Ceschi, Billieux & Van der Linden (2008), the researchers found that the depression experienced by trauma victims is in fact qualitatively and symptomatically different from depression in those unaffected by trauma.

Therefore, trauma is linked to clusters of symptoms that are related to but distinct from their counterparts occurring in the general population. A trauma survivor with psychological and/or physical injuries requires specific interventions. These interventions need to address self-esteem, existential meaning, and identity. For example, Crossley (2000) recommends a process of narrative psychology to help the trauma survivor reconstruct and strengthen identity. The...
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