APA Dictionary of Psychology

the process of identifying positive meaning or personal gains in the aftermath of stressful or adverse life events, such as serious illness, trauma, or major life disruption. Examples include recognizing increased appreciation of life, strengthened relationships, clearer priorities, or a sense of personal growth. Research with individuals facing conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, chronic pain, and infectious diseases has shown that benefit finding is often associated with greater life satisfaction, resilience, and perceived social support, and sometimes with lower emotional distress. However, these links are not consistent across studies or individuals and, in some cases, do not predict better long-term adjustment. This inconsistency has raised questions about whether benefit finding is an adaptive coping strategy, a cognitive defense to manage negative emotions in the wake of a significant stressor, or a combination of both functions. See also posttraumatic growth.