Optimism and self-efficacy as mediators between social inclusion and posttraumatic growth following national trauma

AI Summary

Perceived social inclusion is positively associated with posttraumatic growth following national trauma.
Optimism and self-efficacy operate as sequential mediators linking social inclusion to posttraumatic growth.
Enhancing social inclusion and psychological resources may promote resilience and posttraumatic growth after collective traumatic events.

Psychol Trauma. 2026 May 4. doi: 10.1037/tra0002191. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: Mass terror attacks can psychologically impact entire societies. This study examined the relationship between social inclusion and posttraumatic growth (PTG) among a population experiencing national trauma and explored mediating roles of optimism and self-efficacy.

METHOD: A structured questionnaire was administered to 500 adults in Israel following the October 7, 2023, Hamas terrorist attack.

RESULTS: A serial mediation model found that perceived social inclusion was positively associated with PTG, and optimism and self-efficacy acted as sequential mediators. Specifically, individuals who felt more socially included reported greater optimism, which was associated with greater self-efficacy and greater PTG.

CONCLUSIONS: These results support the social contextual framework and highlight the importance of fostering social inclusion and psychological resources during national crises. Strengthening social inclusion may be a key strategy for promoting resilience and PTG following collective traumatic events. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved).

PMID:42080887 | DOI:10.1037/tra0002191

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