Personality predictors of post-traumatic stress disorder and post-traumatic growth in forensic mortuary employees

Abstract

Employees of the Forensic Pathology Services (FPS) work under constant physical, emotional and psychological stress due to the demands of their work. The literature review emphasizes the widespread existence of traumatic stress in relation to critical incident occupations involving contact with the deceased. However, a need for further research into prolonged and recurring death exposure was highlighted. The objectives of this study were: to investigate the predictive relationship between personality dimensions and post-traumatic stress symptoms within the FPS; and to evaluate whether personality factors can predict post-traumatic growth (PTG). A quantitative study was done with a sample of 118 FPS members from forensic mortuaries within the Gauteng Provincial jurisdiction. Participants included forensic officers, forensic medicine practitioners, administrative staff, and forensic science graduate students. A personality-based conceptual framework allowed for PTSD and PTG to be analysed in relation to the Five-factor model of personality. Findings revealed that significantly high levels of PTSD currently exist within the FPS. The personality traits Neuroticism and Conscientiousness, as well as the PTGI factor Appreciation of life, were found to be significant predictors of PTSD symptomology. Level of education was found to serve as a protective factor. Furthermore, Extroversion, Openness to experience, and job description, were found to have a significant influence on PTG. This study concludes with recommendations for future research into PTSD and PTG within the FPS or similar critical incident occupations.