- Post-pandemic PTG was low: mean 28.34, only 45.2% scored 32 or above, indicating personal growth.
- Students with disabilities had significantly lower PTG (p < .001); higher PTG linked to Black identity, family COVID-19 loss, and friends' support.
- Strengthening social connections may improve PTG, mental health, and academic success, particularly for students with disabilities.
J Am Coll Health. 2026 May;74(5):1325-1335. doi: 10.1080/07448481.2025.2574929. Epub 2025 Oct 19.
ABSTRACT
Objectives: Identify post-traumatic growth (PTG) and the roles of mindfulness, social support, and loneliness in PTG among college students with and without disabilities post-COVID-19. Participants: Six hundred college students enrolled at two universities in Texas. Methods: Participants completed self-report questionnaires via an online Qualtrics survey. Descriptive, bivariate correlation, independent t-test, and regression analyses were conducted. Results: The average PTG score was 28.34 (SD = 12.66), with 45.2% scoring 32 or above, indicating personal growth. Students with disabilities had significantly lower PTG scores (p < .001). For these students, identifying as Black, family loss due to COVID-19, and friends support were associated with higher PTG. Among those without disabilities, racial minority status, family loss, and mentor support were associated with higher PTG. Conclusions: Post-pandemic PTG is notably low among college students, especially those with disabilities, underscoring the need for greater support. Strengthening social connections may improve their PTG, mental health, and academic success.
PMID:42250278 | DOI:10.1080/07448481.2025.2574929
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