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Exploring Traumatic Experiences and Posttraumatic Growth among Korean Veterans: A Photovoice Study
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Riah Kim, Heese Choi, Minsung Kim
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J Korean Acad Nurs 2024;54(4):519-533. Published online October 14, 2024
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.4040/jkan.24049
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 Abstract
 PDF ePub
- Purpose
This study aimed to explore traumatic experiences and posttraumatic growth among Korean veterans.
Methods
A qualitative study was conducted using photovoice. Purposive sampling strategies yielded five veterans who had experienced traumatic events. Participants engaged in three discussion sessions between August 5, 2023, and October 28, 2023. The collected data were analyzed using photovoice document analysis and thematic analysis.
Results
Study results identified the following themes: ‘The collapse of my life as a result massive trauma,’ ‘Sinking into endless isolation and disconnection,’ ‘The process of finding myself through reflection,’ and ‘My life journey moving forward together.’ Despite the irreversible damage caused by traumatic experiences during military service, the participants continuously reflected on the meaning of their trauma and posttraumatic growth, thereby recovering their authentic selves.
Conclusion
Veterans who have experienced traumatic events face severe difficulties, however through their efforts at recovery, they recognize the individuals they are now. This study suggests the need for social support and highlights the necessity of providing various opportunities and policy assistance to traumatized veterans.
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Life changes following trauma in female burn survivors: a narrative inquiry
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Riah Kim, Ji-Su Yun, Inyoung Choe, Heeseung Choi
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Received January 21, 2025 Accepted June 17, 2025 Published online July 1, 2025
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.4040/jkan.25003
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Abstract
ePub
- Purpose
Burn survivors endure repeated exposure to intense pain and face recurring trauma throughout social adaptation. This study explored how female burn survivors construct the meaning of their traumatic experience of a burn accident and the subsequent changes in their lives.
Methods
A qualitative study was conducted using narrative inquiry. Participants were recruited through purposive sampling, and each engaged in three in-depth interviews, resulting in a total of 21 interviews between April 18, 2024, and August 1, 2024. Each interview lasted 90 minutes on average and was conducted in a comfortable location preferred by the participants. The collected data were analyzed through Connelly and Clandinin’s approach.
Results
The participants were seven women with burns on the full body, face-upper limbs, or face-torso. All burns were third- to fourth-degree, and most participants had lived with these injuries for over 10 years. From the significant statements, five themes and 12 subthemes were extracted. The five themes were “unforeseen catastrophe,” “burn scars encroaching upon daily life,” “navigating life as an incomplete woman,” “exclusion from social integration,” and “the meaning of life deepened by suppressed pain.”
Conclusion
Female burn survivors experienced immense hardships following their accidents. However, through their recovery efforts, they found new meaning in life, experienced a renewed sense of being alive, and achieved inner growth and maturity. This study highlights the need for social support and underscores the importance of providing various opportunities and policy assistance for female burn survivors dealing with trauma.
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