Civilians’ strategies of post-traumatic growth (PTG): The significance of Pashtunwali culture in the Swat conflict in Pakistan

Abstract

Exposure to violence can have positive consequences for its victims, resulting in what has been called post-traumatic growth (PTG). The existing literature has discussed multiple aspects of PTG, but how civilians who are victims of violence in armed conflicts may experience PTG is less well understood. This article aims to understand civilians’ strategies for coping with violence that may contribute to PTG in the context of the Swat Conflict (2007–2009) in north-western Pakistan. Because the strategies employed are context-specific, it further explores how the local Pashtunwali culture informed and influenced victims’ responses. The research involved fieldwork including in-depth interviews and focus group discussions (FG) with 150 participants. A thematic analysis of the data found that victims deployed four strategies: seeking strength and refuge in religion, cultivating social connections and support, distractive measures, and individual adjustment. Although individual differences exist, local culture can influence the impact of violence and support victims’ long-term recovery.