Content validity of the post-traumatic growth inventory: a think-aloud study on capturing recovery from addiction

Jason McBurnie, Ciara Bell, Niamh Hurst, Sophia Chambers, Lisa Graham-Wisener, Paul Toner (Lead / Corresponding author)

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

1 Citation (Scopus)
31 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Background There is emerging evidence that post-traumatic growth is a relevant concept in addiction recovery. However, existing measures, such as the post-traumatic growth inventory, were designed to measure post-traumatic growth in general trauma populations. It is unclear if the post-traumatic growth inventory is suitable for individuals in recovery from substance-related addiction. The current study aimed to qualitatively assess the content validity of the post-traumatic growth inventory for individuals in addiction recovery.

Method The think-aloud method was applied, and semi-structured interviews utilized, to collect data from 20 individuals in recovery from unhealthy alcohol and/or drug use. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyze data in relation to item interpretation and experience of post-traumatic growth.

Findings Qualitative assessment supported three out of five subscales on the post-traumatic growth inventory (new possibilities, personal strength and appreciation of life). Modifications were suggested on some items from the relating to others domain and responses to the spiritual change domain possibly reflected a cultural influence. There was an identified need to include items that account for positive changes in health behavior.

Conclusions The current study highlights domains of post-traumatic growth for those in addiction recovery and how the post-traumatic growth inventory may understate some forms of positive life change. Future research should focus on validating a revised version of the post-traumatic growth inventory for this population.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)255-263
Number of pages9
JournalAddiction Research and Theory
Volume32
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 14 Sept 2023

Keywords

  • substance use recovery
  • post-traumatic growth
  • content validity
  • think-aloud
  • addiction
  • post-traumatic growth inventory
  • PTGI

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