title: Bereavement and transformation: a psycho-spiritual and post-traumatic growth perspective.
abstract: In the aftermath of loss, it is not uncommon for individuals to disclose psycho-spiritual experiences that lead to personal changes and psychological growth. This article argues for and outlines a broad conceptual framework that captures and acknowledges the significance of these subjective experiences. The model synthesises and integrates two approaches to healthy growth: Lawrence Calhoun and Richard Tedeschi's post-traumatic growth model and Stanislav and Christina Grof's model of psycho-spiritual transformation. A rationale for a broader model and underpinning theory is briefly discussed, and their shared understandings about the human potential for growth in the struggle through loss are explored.
authors.affiliation: Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Trades, Eastern Institute of Technology, Private Bag 1201, Hawke's Bay Mail Centre, Napier, 4142, New Zealand. drpeterbray@yahoo.co.nz
authors.forename: Peter
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Bray
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D001601:Bereavement; D003210:Concept Formation; D006801:Humans; D008016:Life Change Events; D008960:Models, Psychological; D012069:Religion and Psychology