Exploring the Cultivation of Nonattachment for Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress: A Reflexive Thematic Analysis

Abstract

Nonattachment involves acceptance, deep presence, understanding of self as universally interconnected, and creating perceptual distance between stimulus and response. This study investigated the experience of participants in a programme of nonattachment for post-traumatic stress (NPTS) and what these insights could yield about cultivating nonattachment in clinical and sub-clinical contexts. Reflexive Thematic Analysis was conducted on data from reflection forms within eight modules and one action planning segment using 136 data points from 30 out of 75 participants who completed the programme. Following initial theme identification, a second-level analysis was conducted to identify a central organising principle underlying the broader experience of cultivating nonattachment. From nine initial themes, Safety, Agency, and Time (SAT) were identified in the second-level analysis as central organising concepts for engaging in nonattachment-based learning. These SAT components appeared to support emotional regulation, learner autonomy, and flexible integration of content. Identification of SAT as a foundational framework for the NPTS experience offers a valuable model for future programme development. These findings support the potential of NPTS as a transition tool following structured clinical care, to be used for continued growth and maintenance in trauma recovery.

Keywords

nonattachment mindfulness qualitative reflexive thematic analysis trauma PTSD

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