THE IMPACT OF RUMINATION ON POSTTRAUMATIC GROWTH AND EMOTIONAL REGULATION AMONG BURN SURVIVORS

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the impact of rumination on posttraumatic growth (PTG) with emotional regulation among burn survivors. Traumatic experiences often lead to complex cognitive, emotional, and behavioral responses, where rumination plays a critical role in psychological adjustment. A quantitative correlational research design was employed, and data were collected from (N=50) burn survivors (male and female) aged 18–64 years at the Pak-Italian Burn Center, Multan, using purposive sampling. Standardized instruments including the Event-Related Rumination Inventory (ERRI), Posttraumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI), and Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ) were utilized. The findings revealed a significant positive relationship between PTG, emotional regulation, and deliberate rumination, suggesting that purposeful reflection on traumatic experiences facilitates psychological growth. In contrast, intrusive rumination demonstrated a negative association with PTG and emotional regulation, indicating its maladaptive nature. Regression analysis showed that intrusive rumination negatively predicted PTG, whereas deliberate rumination had a positive but non-significant effect. Demographic variables such as age, education level, and mode of burn injury showed no significant differences across study variables. Gender differences were observed only in emotional regulation, while PTG and rumination remained consistent across male and female participants. Overall, the findings emphasize the constructive role of deliberate rumination and highlight the need for targeted psychological interventions to promote adaptive coping and growth among burn survivors.