Post-Traumatic Growth among High School Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Survey Study

Abstract

Background: Following major life crisis or traumatic events, people can change their perspectives and experience personal growth, a process known as posttraumatic growth (PTG). The goal of this study was to evaluate the stress experienced by high school students during the COVID-19 pandemic and to determine whether they have experienced post-traumatic growth. Methods: An anonymous online survey regarding stress and PTG related to the COVID-19 pandemic was distributed to 500 students from a high school in Massachusetts between March 01 - 21, 2021. Results: A total of 167 of 500 surveys were completed (33.4% response rate). Most students (83.2%) reported moderate and severe stress during the COVID-19 pandemic, with more 12th grade students experienced severe stress (40.0% vs. 34.0% of 11 graders, 34.3% of 10 graders, and 22.5% of 9th graders). Furthermore, more female students experienced severe stress (40.7% vs. 22.5% of males). Participants were most stressed about the outlook for their future, followed by social isolation, personal or familial risk of becoming infected with COVID-19, the quality of education during the pandemic, and financial difficulties. The most positive COVID-19 related change reported by the surveyed students was increased compassion for others, followed by development of new interests, feeling that they can rely on people in times of trouble, increased willingness to try to change situations that they are unsatisfied with, changed priorities about what is important in life, greater appreciation for their own life's value, better able to accept the way things work out, greater sense of personal strength, increased appreciation of each day, greater sense of closeness with others, being more willing to express emotions, appreciation of new opportunities, and better understanding of spiritual matters. Female participants reported more personal growth in all PTG categories. Conclusions: While high school students experience significant stress during the COVID-19 pandemic, this study suggests that they can also experience positive life changes as a result of such a traumatic event. Teachers, counselors, and parents should work together to adequately support high school students during the COVID-19 pandemic.