Posttraumatic Growth in Women Who Have Experienced Intimate Partner Abuse.

The purpose of the current qualitative descriptive study was to describe the experiences of women who have endured intimate partner abuse using the theoretical framework of posttraumatic growth (PTG). Women (N = 14) who reported emotional and/or physical abuse by their male partners were interviewed. Five themes were identified: Acknowledging the Abusive Relationship; Fear of Him: Threats, Control, Pain, and Isolation; Accepting Support: Grabbing the Life Preserver; Rediscovering Myself: Digging Deep; and Appreciating Life and Helping Others. Findings have practical implications for nurses who are in pivotal positions to educate and influence others about the possibility of PTG following partner abuse. Nurses can help women find their way through this trauma and teach others about coping, healing, and recovery. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 61(8), 34-41.].