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DOI: https://doi.org/10.34069/AI/2024.74.02.19
How to Cite:
Pryzvanska, R., Borysova, O., Mozgova, G., & Fedorenko, A. (2024). Clinical cases and recommendations for post-traumatic
rehabilitation based on EI. Amazonia Investiga, 13(74), 227-238. https://doi.org/10.34069/AI/2024.74.02.19
Clinical cases and recommendations for post-traumatic rehabilitation
based on EI
Casos clínicos y recomendaciones para la rehabilitación postraumática basadas en la IE
Received: January 8, 2024 Accepted: February 27, 2024
Written by:
Roksolyana Pryzvanska1
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7635-1227
Olesia Borysova2
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8174-476X
Galyna Mozgova3
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4836-245X
Alla Fedorenko4
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8180-4494
Abstract
Psychological rehabilitation following traumatic
events is essential for individuals to regain a
sense of well-being and resilience. Emotional
intelligence (EI) has emerged as a promising tool
in trauma recovery, yet its specific role and
effectiveness remain underexplored. This
research aims to investigate the relevance of EI
as a tool for psychological rehabilitation after
traumatic events. Through the analysis of clinical
cases, this study seeks to elucidate the impact of
EI interventions on promoting resilience and
facilitating recovery among trauma survivors.
Clinical cases, presented in literature, of
individuals who have experienced traumatic
events were analyzed to assess the role of EI in
their psychological rehabilitation. The results
reveal that EI interventions significantly
contribute to psychological rehabilitation after
traumatic events. The integration of EI strategies
into trauma recovery programs facilitated
resilience-building and enhanced overall well-
being among trauma survivors. Hence, the
research underscores the relevance of EI as a tool
for psychological rehabilitation after traumatic
1
PhD in Psychology, Associate Professor, Department of Special Education, Faculty of Pedagogical Education, Ivan Franko National
University of Lviv, Lviv, Ukraine. WoS Researcher ID: ITU-9941-2023
2
Doctor of Law, Senior Lecturer, Department of General and Differential Psychology, State Institution “Southern Ukrainian National
Pedagogical University named after K.D. Ushinsky”, Odesa, Ukraine. WoS Researcher ID: KHC-9271-2024
3
Doctor of Psychological Sciences, Professor, Head of the Department of Psychosomatics and Health Psychology, Faculty of
Psychology, Mykhailo Dragomanov National Pedagogical University, Kyiv, Ukraine. WoS Researcher ID: IAR-5095-2023
4
PhD in Psychology, Associate Professor, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Mykhailo Dragomanov National
Pedagogical University, Kyiv, Ukraine. WoS Researcher ID: AAD-6669-2021
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events. The conclusions highlight the
effectiveness of EI interventions in promoting
resilience and facilitating recovery among
trauma survivors. By incorporating EI strategies
into trauma recovery programs, mental health
professionals can enhance the effectiveness of
interventions and support individuals in their
journey toward healing and recovery.
Keywords: trauma rehabilitation, emotional
intelligence interventions, case illustrations,
resilience enhancement, psychological healing,
traumatic events, psychological rehabilitation.
Introduction
In the wake of traumatic events, individuals often
grapple with a myriad of emotional upheavals,
from acute distress to long-lasting psychological
scars. In recent years, the concept of emotional
intelligence (EI) has emerged as a pivotal tool in
the field of psychological rehabilitation, offering
a nuanced understanding of how individuals
perceive, express, and manage emotions. This
burgeoning interest stems from the recognition
that traditional therapeutic approaches, while
valuable, may sometimes fall short in addressing
the complex emotional needs of trauma survivors
(Gransberry, 2021). Trauma, whether resulting
from natural disasters, interpersonal violence, or
other life-altering experiences, can significantly
disrupt an individual's emotional equilibrium.
Conventional models of psychological
intervention typically focus on symptom
alleviation and cognitive restructuring.
Nowadays it is important to improve emotional
intelligence. Emotional intelligence (EI) is the
ability to understand, realize and manage one's
own emotions, one's motivation, thoughts and
behavior, to regulate one's emotional state, as
well as the ability to manage the emotional states
of other people, notice their actual needs,
empathize and develop their strengths.
While traditional methods seek to alleviate
symptoms, they do not address the emotional and
psychological roots of the problem. Cognitive-
behavioral therapy, for example, focuses on
modifying distorted thoughts without addressing
the underlying emotional components. As a
result, these traditional methods often offer
limited and isolated solutions to post-traumatic
syndromes. Exposure therapy, on the other hand,
while it can be helpful, carries the risk of
rekindling the trauma. Therefore, the
development of emotional intelligence becomes
a fundamental tool to prevent the recurrence of
the problem and promote a comprehensive
recovery.
A burgeoning body of research has explored the
role of EI in facilitating psychological
rehabilitation following traumatic events
(Miloradova, 2023). Studies have investigated
various facets of EI, including emotional
awareness, empathy, and emotion regulation, and
their influence on coping strategies and
resilience. Moreover, empirical evidence
suggests that individuals possessing emotional
intelligence tend to exhibit better adaptive
functioning and reduced vulnerability to
psychopathology in the aftermath of trauma (Kao
& Chen, 2016; Malik, 2021; Radziievska et al.,
2022). Such findings underscore the potential
utility of integrating EI-based interventions into
existing therapeutic frameworks to enhance post-
traumatic recovery outcomes.
Despite the growing recognition of emotional
intelligence as a valuable resource in trauma
recovery, significant gaps remain in
understanding its precise mechanisms of action
and optimal implementation within clinical
settings. Moreover, contextual factors such as
cultural differences and socio-economic
disparities may influence the efficacy of EI-
based interventions, highlighting the need for
nuanced approaches that account for diverse
individual backgrounds and experiences.
The primary aim of this study is to explore the
utility of emotional intelligence as a tool of
psychological rehabilitation following traumatic
events, drawing upon clinical cases and empirical
research to elucidate its potential benefits and
challenges. To complete the object, the following
research questions will be undertaken:
1. Reviewing existing literature on emotional
intelligence and trauma recovery to identify
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key theoretical frameworks and empirical
findings.
2. Analyzing clinical cases illustrating the
application of EI-based interventions in
diverse trauma contexts, with a focus on
treatment outcomes and therapeutic
processes.
3. Identifying barriers to the effective
integration of emotional intelligence into
trauma rehabilitation protocols and
proposing recommendations for addressing
these challenges.
4. Synthesizing findings to inform evidence-
based practices and guidelines for enhancing
psychological rehabilitation efforts in the
aftermath of trauma.
Through a comprehensive exploration of
emotional intelligence within the background of
trauma recovery, this study seeks to contribute to
the growing body of knowledge aimed at
improving the quality of care for trauma
survivors and promoting their long-term well-
being.
Literature review
A considerable body of scholarly work has
delved into the intersection of emotional
intelligence (EI) and trauma, exploring their
intricate relationship and implications for
psychological well-being. Current scholars have
investigated several important issues of EI,
ranging from its role in military leadership to its
impact on trauma treatment outcomes and self-
care practices among clinicians. Numerous
scholars have underscored the importance of
emotional intelligence in military settings,
highlighting its role in enhancing leadership
effectiveness and promoting resilience among
service members (Chiorcea & Cioranu, 2021;
Garcia Zea et al., 2023). These studies have
demonstrated that individuals with higher levels
of emotional intelligence exhibit greater
adaptability in high-stress environments,
fostering cohesive team dynamics and
facilitating decision-making processes.
Moreover, research has examined the link
between past trauma and emotional intelligence,
shedding light on how adverse experiences may
shape one's emotional competencies (Oden et al.,
2015). However, these studies constitute only
the theoretical basis of the study, since they do
not demonstrate concrete practical solutions and
models of treatment of psychological diseases
based on the development of emotional
intelligence.
Older, conventional techniques aim to lessen
symptoms without considering psychological
and emotional factors. Specifically, cognitive-
behavioral therapy influences the alteration of
dysfunctional thought patterns without
emphasizing emotional aspects. In addition,
conventional approaches can only partially and
singly alleviate post-traumatic disorders.
However, there is a chance that exposure therapy
will make the issue worse.
Findings from Gottfredson & Becker (2023)
suggest that exposure to trauma can impact
emotional regulation abilities and interpersonal
functioning, potentially contributing to
difficulties in navigating social relationships and
coping with distressing emotions. In the realm of
clinical practice, attention has been directed
towards the role of emotional intelligence in
facilitating effective trauma treatment outcomes
(Crone et al., 2022). A comparative analysis of
trauma interventions among homeless and
housed veterans revealed nuanced differences in
response to therapeutic approaches, underscoring
the importance of considering individual
differences in emotional functioning and
environmental factors (Crone et al., 2022).
Furthermore, studies have explored the
relationship between emotional intelligence and
self-care practices among clinicians, particularly
in the context of trauma exposure (Butler et al.,
2017). Research findings have highlighted the
significance of emotional self-awareness and
self-regulation in mitigating burnout, secondary
traumatic stress symptoms, and compassion
fatigue among mental health professionals.
However, the shortcoming of the study is the
practical dimension, since the researcher did not
demonstrate in practice the relationship between
these methods and their significance for
treatment. Additionally, literature has examined
how emotional intelligence contributes to
effective leadership and management practices,
emphasizing its role in promoting collaboration,
empathy, and conflict resolution skills
(Gransberry, 2021). These studies suggest that
leaders with higher emotional intelligence are
better equipped to navigate complex
organizational challenges and foster supportive
work environments conducive to employee well-
being. The study by Piotrowski, Martinská, Boe,
Rawat and Deshpande (2020) reveals significant
correlations between personality traits, self-
esteem, emotional intelligence among military
personnel. Specifically, certain personality traits
were found to be associated with higher levels of
self-esteem and EI indicating a potential link
between individual dispositions and adaptive
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functioning in cross-cultural environments. Tuck
and Patlamazoglou (2019) investigate the
complex relationship between traumatic stress,
EI, and posttraumatic growth (PTG)—the
positive psychological changes that individuals
may experience following adversity. The study
reveals a significant negative correlation between
traumatic stress symptoms and emotional
intelligence, indicating that individuals with
higher EI levels experience lower levels of
distress in response to trauma. Hence, the
literature reviewed underscores the multifaceted
nature of emotional intelligence and its relevance
across diverse domains, from military contexts to
clinical settings and organizational leadership.
By elucidating the complex interplay between
emotional intelligence and trauma, these studies
offer important data into the potential
applications of EI-based interventions in
promoting psychological resilience and
facilitating post-traumatic growth. It should be
noted that these studies do not always take into
account the practical aspect of treatment and do
not describe regional traditions of these
therapies. Thus, this research will be directed to
the analysis of post-traumatic practices based on
detailed analysis of clinical cases and practical
solutions, which makes this work important for
further studies.
Methodology
By employing a multi-method approach that
integrates case illustrations from literature with
systematic literature analysis, this study aims to
provide a study of the role of emotional
intelligence in psychological rehabilitation after
traumatic events.
First step: literature análisis
Literature selection
A comprehensive search of academic databases
conducted to identify relevant studies on
emotional intelligence and trauma rehabilitation.
Peer-reviewed articles, research papers, and
meta-analyses published in the last decade
included in the analysis.
Data extraction
Pertinent data regarding emotional intelligence
theories, trauma interventions, treatment
outcomes, and recommendations was extracted
from the chosen literature. This data was
methodically organized and synthesized to aid in
comparison and analysis.
Data synthesis
During data synthesis, the gathered information
was amalgamated to pinpoint common themes,
trends, and gaps within the literature.
Comparative analysis techniques were utilized to
scrutinize similarities and differences across
studies, thereby fostering a comprehension of the
research background in the field.
Second step: case Illustration from literatura
Selection of cases
Utilizing a systematic literature review approach,
relevant case illustrations from existing literature
was identified. Cases were selected based on
their relevance to the topic of emotional
intelligence as a tool for psychological
rehabilitation after traumatic events. Criteria for
selection included diversity in trauma types,
treatment modalities, and outcomes.
Data collection
Case illustrations were extracted from peer-
reviewed journals, books, and other scholarly
sources. Data related to the traumatic event,
emotional intelligence interventions, therapeutic
processes, and treatment outcomes were
collected and analyzed.
Data analysis
Case data was qualitatively analyzed to identify
general themes and patterns, regarding the role of
emotional intelligence in psychological
rehabilitation post-trauma. Thematic analysis
was employed to organize and interpret the data.
Third step: integration of methods
Triangulation
Findings from the case illustrations and literature
analysis were triangulated to validate and enrich
the results. Consistency and convergence of
evidence across different sources was sought to
enhance the robustness of the findings.
Interpretation
The integrated findings were interpreted in light
of existing theoretical frameworks and empirical
evidence. Insights derived from the case
illustrations were contextualized within the
broader literature landscape, allowing for a
nuanced understanding of the role of emotional
intelligence in trauma rehabilitation.
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Results and discussion
In the aftermath of traumatic events, individuals
often grapple with profound emotional distress
and psychological upheaval. Traditional
therapeutic approaches, while effective to some
extent, may not adequately address the complex
emotional needs of trauma survivors. Emotional
intelligence (EI), characterized by the capacity to
perceive, comprehend, and manage emotions,
has garnered increasing attention as a promising
tool for psychological rehabilitation in such
contexts (Holbery, 2011; Holbery, 2015). By
fostering emotional awareness, empathy, and
adaptive coping strategies, EI interventions offer
a holistic approach to trauma recovery.
Emotional responses to traumatic events are
highly nuanced and deeply intertwined with an
individual's sociocultural background. While the
immediate aftermath of trauma often elicits
emotions such as anger, fear, sadness, and shame,
the manifestation of these feelings can be
complex and multifaceted.
Moreover, some individuals may struggle to
recognize or acknowledge these emotions due to
various factors (Ishii et al., 2017). One
significant barrier to identifying emotions is a
lack of prior exposure to emotional expression
within one's familial or community context. In
cultures or families where emotional discussions
are taboo or suppressed, individuals may find it
challenging to label and process their feelings in
the aftermath of trauma. Furthermore, some
individuals may perceive emotional expression
as dangerous, associating it with the trauma
itself. They may fear that acknowledging their
emotions will result in a loss of control, leading
to a sense of “losing it” or descending into
madness. This fear can be particularly potent for
those who have experienced trauma in which
emotions played a central role, reinforcing the
belief that emotional expression is perilous.
Additionally, there are those who may deny
experiencing any emotions related to their
traumatic experiences altogether. Instead, they
may describe their reactions as a sense of
numbness or emotional detachment. This denial
can stem from a variety of factors, including a
desire to avoid confronting painful memories or
a belief that acknowledging emotions would be
too overwhelming (See Figure 1).
Figure 1. Illustration of case.
Source: Adapted from Center for Substance Abuse Treatment (U.S.) (2014)
In the case 1 emotional numbing is apparent
through her restricted range of emotions during
interpersonal interactions and patient’s inability
to connect any emotion to her history of abuse.
Additionally, she harbors a belief in a
foreshortened future. Research such as the
prospective longitudinal study by Jeppesen
(2017) underscores the significance of
recognizing and comprehending numbing as a
response to traumatic stress (See Figure 2).
Case 1
A 22-year-old woman was mandated to outpatient mental health and substance
abuse treatment as an alternative to incarceration after being arrested for assault.
During intake, she disclosed a seven-year history of alcohol abuse and one
depressive episode at age 18. She also revealed a history of severe physical abuse
by her mother's boyfriend between ages 4 and 15. Despite the severity of her
experiences, she showed a pragmatic attitude toward her past trauma, expressing
reluctance to engage in group therapy or discuss emotions openly. She exhibited
disinterest in schooling, having dropped out in 10th grade, and expressed low
expectations for her future. Throughout her initial weeks in treatment, she
remained disconnected from group members, questioning the purpose of therapy,
and denying any emotional impact from her abusive past. Observers noted her
lack of empathy and flat affect during group discussions, indicating potential
emotional detachment or suppression.
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Figure 2. Illustration of case.
Source: Adapted from Center for Substance Abuse Treatment (U.S.) (2014)
The case of Patient 1 highlights the importance
of developing emotional intelligence,
particularly in the aftermath of traumatic events
such as natural disasters. Emotional intelligence
encompasses the ability to recognize, understand,
and manage one's own emotions, as well as to
navigate interpersonal relationships effectively.
In this scenario, Patient 1 experienced intense
fear, anxiety, and emotional detachment
following a natural disaster, symptoms generally
connected with post-traumatic stress disorder
(PTSD). These emotional responses not only
disrupted her daily life but also hindered her
ability to cope with the aftermath of the event.
However, through tailored counseling addressing
her acute stress reaction, Patient 1 received
support and guidance in developing emotional
intelligence skills. By learning to recognize and
manage her emotions, Patient 1 was able to
abstain from maladaptive coping mechanisms,
such as smoking marijuana, and gradually regain
stability over time. Moreover, the rebuilding of
Patient 1's life with newfound resilience
underscores the transformative power of
emotional intelligence in overcoming adversity.
By cultivating emotional awareness, resilience,
and adaptive coping strategies, individuals like
Patient 1 can navigate the challenges of trauma
recovery more effectively and rebuild their lives
with greater strength and stability. Overall, the
case illustrates that developing emotional
intelligence is crucial for individuals facing
traumatic events, as it equips them with the
necessary skills to cope, adapt, and thrive in the
face of adversity. Through targeted interventions
and support, individuals can harness the power of
emotional intelligence to promote healing,
resilience, and overall well-being in the
aftermath of trauma. Through EI-focused
therapy, the individual learns to identify and
manage their emotions, gradually regaining a
sense of control and resilience. By cultivating
emotional regulation skills, the survivor develops
coping strategies to navigate triggers and
intrusive thoughts, paving the way for gradual
recovery and emotional healing.
The importance EI for individuals who have
participated in different wars cannot be
overstated. In the aftermath of armed conflict,
soldiers and veterans often face a myriad of
physical, psychological, and emotional
challenges (MacEwan & Gibson, 2023; Castilho
Barilli, 2012). Emotional intelligence plays a
critical role in helping them navigate these
difficulties and promote their well-being in
several ways (See Figure 3).
Case 2
A survivor of a natural disaster experiences intense fear and anxiety, along with
symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Following the natural
disaster, Patient 2 experienced a two-week period of emotional detachment and
refusal to return to the location where she had been during the event. She also
resorted to smoking marijuana again to cope with sleep disturbances, leading
to increased irritability and anger outbursts towards her family. Seeking help
from a treatment program, Patient 2 underwent tailored counseling addressing
her acute stress reaction. With support and guidance, she successfully abstained
from marijuana and gradually regained stability over three weeks, rebuilding
her life with newfound resilience.
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Figure 3. Ways of promoting the improvement of the condition of military personnel through the
development of emotional intelligence.
Source: Author’s development
Hence, emotional intelligence is of paramount
importance for military people have participated
in war, offering a valuable resource for
navigating the complexities of post-conflict
adjustment and promoting psychological
resilience, social integration, and overall well-
being. By recognizing and cultivating emotional
intelligence, soldiers and veterans can effectively
cope with the challenges of war trauma and
thrive in their transition to civilian life (See
Figure 4-6).
Figure 4. Illustration of case.
Source: Adapted from Center for Substance Abuse Treatment (U.S.) (2014)
Hence, EI enables individuals like Patient 3 to
recognize and regulate their emotions
effectively. Through therapy focused on
emotional regulation, he learns to manage the
intense emotions associated with his PTSD
symptoms. By developing strategies to cope with
intrusive memories and emotional numbing, he
gains greater control over his psychological well-
being (Koh & O’Higgins, 2018). EI facilitates
empathy and understanding towards oneself and
others. As Patient 3 navigates his journey of
recovery, empathy allows him to acknowledge
and validate his own emotions and experiences
without judgment. Additionally, empathy fosters
a deeper understanding of the experiences of
fellow veterans, enhancing his ability to connect
1. Emotion Regulation
War experiences can evoke intense emotions such as
fear, anger, grief, and guilt. By developing strategies
for coping with emotional distress, soldiers and
veterans can better regulate their psychological
responses to traumatic events.
2. Resilience
The ability to bounce back from adversity is essential
for soldiers and veterans transitioning from the
battlefield to civilian life. Emotional intelligence
fosters resilience by promoting adaptive coping
mechanisms. By cultivating resilience, individuals
can better cope with stressors and setbacks,
ultimately facilitating their reintegration into society.
3. Interpersonal Relationships
Emotional intelligence enhances interpersonal skills
such as empathy, communication, and conflict
resolution, facilitating meaningful connections and
social support networks.
4. Post-Traumatic Growth
While war trauma can have profound negative effects,
it can also serve as a catalyst for personal growth and
transformation. Emotional intelligence enables
individuals to make meaning of their experiences,
find purpose and direction in life, and cultivate a
sense of optimism and hope for the future
Case 3
A 30-year-old combat veteran, returned from deployment with symptoms of post-traumatic
stress disorder (PTSD), including intrusive memories, hypervigilance, and emotional
numbing. Despite his physical injuries healing, the Patient 3 struggled with intense survivor
guilt and feelings of worthlessness. Through therapy focused on emotional regulation and
trauma processing, he learned to cope with his emotions and reconcile his wartime
experiences. With ongoing support from his therapist and peers, he gradually regained a
sense of purpose and meaning in civilian life, volunteering with veterans' organizations to
support others struggling with similar challenges.
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and support them in their own recovery
processes. Moreover, EI equips individuals with
adaptive coping mechanisms to navigate
challenging situations effectively. By developing
coping strategies tailored to his specific needs,
Patient 3 learns to confront and process his
traumatic memories constructively. Through
therapy focused on trauma processing, he gains
insight into his emotions and experiences,
empowering him to adapt and thrive despite his
past traumas. In summary, this case underscores
the importance of Emotional Intelligence in
PTSD recovery among combat veterans (Koh &
O’Higgins, 2018). By enhancing emotion
recognition, empathy, coping skills, and
interpersonal relationships, EI empowers
individuals like Patient 3 to navigate the
complexities of their traumatic experiences and
embark on a journey towards healing, resilience,
and post-traumatic growth.
Figure 5. Illustration of case.
Source: Author’s development
As shown in Case 4 EI played a crucial role in
Patient’s ability to recognize and regulate
emotions effectively. Through therapy, she
learned to identify and express her feelings of
anger, fear, and sadness associated with her
traumatic experiences. By developing emotional
awareness and regulation skills, Patient 4 gained
greater control over her emotional responses,
reducing the intensity of her symptoms and
improving her overall well-being. Moreover, EI
facilitated her development of interpersonal
skills and effective communication strategies. In
therapy, she learned to communicate emotions
and needs assertively, fostering healthier
relationships with her family and friends
(Vostrotin & Litovchenko, 2023). By expressing
herself openly and honestly, she rebuilt trust and
connection in her relationships, overcoming the
barriers to intimacy and social support that she
had previously experienced. In conclusion, EI
played a pivotal role in Patient’s 4 journey of
healing and self-discovery. By enhancing her
emotional awareness, interpersonal skills,
empathy, and resilience, EI facilitated her
recovery from PTSD and empowered her to
rebuild her life with newfound strength and
purpose. This case underscores the
transformative impact of EI in promoting
psychological well-being and resilience among
individuals recovering from trauma.
Discussion
The case illustrations highlight the diverse ways
in which EI interventions can support
psychological rehabilitation after traumatic
events. By addressing emotional needs,
enhancing coping skills, and promoting adaptive
functioning, EI emerges as a valuable tool in
trauma recovery. Moreover, the holistic nature of
EI interventions underscores the importance of
addressing emotional well-being alongside
cognitive and behavioral approaches. However,
challenges such as cultural differences,
individual variability, and access to resources
must be considered in the implementation of EI-
based interventions (Chiorcea & Cioranu, 2021;
Kao & Chen, 2016). The research on emotional
intelligence as a tool for psychological
rehabilitation after traumatic events provides
valuable insights into the efficacy of EI
interventions in promoting resilience among
survivors. Comparing these findings with those
of other scholars sheds light on the broader
landscape of research in this area. Gottfredson &
Becker (2023) explored the issue of connection
between past trauma and EI. Their findings
suggest that individuals who have experienced
different trauma may exhibit alterations in
emotional intelligence, potentially affecting their
ability to regulate emotions and navigate
interpersonal relationships effectively. This
aligns with the present research, which
emphasizes the importance of EI in trauma
Case 4
A 28-year-old female soldier, experienced multiple deployments to combat zones, where
she witnessed and participated in traumatic events. Upon returning home, she struggled
with anger outbursts, nightmares, and avoidance of reminders of her military service.
Patient 4 found it difficult to connect with others and experienced strained relationships
with her family and friends. Through individual and group therapy focused on interpersonal
skills and coping strategies, Patient 4 learned to communicate her emotions effectively and
rebuild trust in her relationships. With the support of her therapy group, she embarked on a
journey of healing and self-discovery, eventually finding fulfillment in advocating for
mental health awareness among military personnel.
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recovery and highlights the need for tailored
interventions to address emotional challenges
stemming from past trauma.
Garcia Zea et al. (2023) examined the issue of
role of EI in the military place of work. Their
study underscores the significance of EI in
enhancing leadership effectiveness and overall
well-being among military personnel. While
their focus is on the workplace context, their
findings resonate with the current research,
which emphasizes the role of EI in promoting
psychological resilience among military veterans
coping with trauma-related challenges.
Jeppesen's (2017) research investigates the
connection between emotional intelligence and
military advisors. The study highlights the
significance of EI skills, such as empathy and
communication, in facilitating effective
leadership and interpersonal interactions within
military settings. This aligns with the present
research, which underscores the relevance of EI
in fostering positive outcomes among military
personnel grappling with the psychological
effects of trauma exposure. West et al. (2020)
examine the effect of hyper-realistic trauma
training on EI in military students. Their study
suggests that immersive training experiences
may enhance EI skills, particularly in the sense
of medical trauma response. While their focus is
on training interventions, their findings
complement the current research by highlighting
the potential of targeted interventions to bolster
EI among military personnel facing trauma-
related challenges.
MacEwan and Gibson (2023) explore EI in
military officers within the Defence Medical
Services. Their study underscores the relevance
of EI in medical contexts, emphasizing its role in
enhancing clinical effectiveness and patient care.
While their focus is on healthcare professionals,
their findings contribute to the broader
understanding of EI's significance in military
settings, aligning with the present research's
emphasis on EI as a tool for psychological
rehabilitation after traumatic events.
Although Sharma and Saxena's (2022) study
highlights the importance of emotional
intelligence in promoting work-life balance
among nurses, their research focuses solely on
job stress and does not delve into the specific
challenges faced by individuals recovering from
trauma. This research, on the other hand,
examines the role of emotional intelligence as a
tool for psychological rehabilitation after
traumatic events, offering insights into its
efficacy in addressing trauma-related symptoms
and promoting resilience among survivors.
While Butler, Carello, and Maguin's (2017) study
provides valuable insights into the predictors of
burnout and secondary traumatic stress
symptoms among individuals in clinical training,
their research does not specifically explore the
role of emotional intelligence in mitigating these
outcomes. In contrast, our study emphasizes the
significance of emotional intelligence in trauma
recovery and highlights its potential to enhance
coping mechanisms and promote well-being
among individuals grappling with the
psychological effects of trauma.
In summary, while each study offers important
insights into the role of emotional intelligence
within military and trauma contexts, collectively,
they highlight the importance of EI in promoting
resilience, leadership effectiveness, and clinical
outcomes among military personnel facing
trauma-related challenges. These findings
underscore the multifaceted nature of EI and its
relevance across various domains within the
military and healthcare sectors. At the same time,
it is worth delving into cultural and contextual
factors that can affect the effectiveness of
psychological rehabilitation, in particular after
trauma. For this reason, cultural beliefs and
values are important, particularly as they
influence how individuals respond to
psychological treatment. For example, in some
cultures there is a stigma around mental illness
that prevents them from seeking help. In
addition, certain cultural values based on
collectivism or individualism form a specific
attitude to help. In collectivist cultures, where the
main emphasis is on family support, family
therapy is preferred. There are also language
barriers that can create challenges for
psychological treatment.
Hence, EI plays a crucial role in psychological
rehabilitation after traumatic events, as
evidenced by the insights gleaned from clinical
cases. By integrating EI-focused approaches into
trauma rehabilitation protocols, clinicians can
enhance therapeutic outcomes and promote
resilience among trauma survivors.
The novelty of this research lies in its exploration
of EI as a pivotal tool for psychological
rehabilitation following traumatic events. While
previous studies have examined the role of EI in
various contexts, such as workplace dynamics
and healthcare settings, this research specifically
focuses on its application in the aftermath of
trauma. By analyzing clinical cases of
individuals who have experienced special
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traumatic events, the study offers unique insights
into how EI interventions can aid in the recovery
process and promote resilience among survivors.
Furthermore, this research contributes to the
existing literature by providing concrete
recommendations for incorporating EI strategies
into trauma recovery programs. By synthesizing
clinical cases and drawing on evidence-based
practices, the study offers practical guidance for
mental health professionals and trauma survivors
alike, highlighting the importance of EI in
fostering emotional regulation, interpersonal
skills, and coping mechanisms post-trauma.
This research has a few limitations that should be
taken into account despite its contributions. First
off, the study's primary focus is on clinical cases,
which would restrict how broadly the results can
be applied. Clinical cases offer insightful
perspectives into personal experiences, but they
could not fully represent the range of experiences
that trauma survivors have or take into
consideration the various cultural and contextual
elements that affect psychological recovery.
Second, there's a chance that the study has
intrinsic biases, including selection bias in the
selection of clinical cases or researcher prejudice
in the analysis of the data. The validity and
dependability of the study's conclusions and
suggestions may be impacted by these biases. It
is also important to discuss the subjectivism that
permeates scientific literature.
Additionally, the study's focus on EI as a
therapeutic tool may overlook other factors that
contribute to psychological rehabilitation after
traumatic events. While EI plays a significant
role, other interventions, such as cognitive-
behavioral therapy or pharmacological
treatments, may also be important in
comprehensive trauma recovery programs. In
conclusion, while this study provides significant
view into the significance of EI in the
psychological recovery process following
traumatic events, it is imperative to recognize the
constraints inherent to this research and the
necessity for additional investigations to
substantiate its findings and bridge existing gaps
in knowledge.
Conclusions
Hence, the study highlights the key role of
emotional intelligence (EI) in the psychological
rehabilitation of post-traumatic events, as
evidenced by clinical cases. EI interventions
have played an important role in building
resilience and helping survivors navigate the
complexities of post-traumatic recovery. By
improving emotional awareness, regulation,
interpersonal skills, and coping strategies,
individuals are empowered to face and overcome
the effects of trauma, emerging with newfound
strength and purpose. Emotion-based therapy is
an empirically supported method that highlights
the need of comprehending and managing
emotions in order to promote trauma recovery.
This helps the patient feel better and lowers the
chance of this psychiatric illness returning
compared to more conventional approaches.
However, despite the confirmation of the
effectiveness of the development of emotional
intelligence, it is important to formulate final
recommendations for improving psychological
rehabilitation after an experienced trauma.
1. Individualized interventions. Specific
populations, such as veterans or survivors of
natural disasters, should receive
interventions tailored to their unique
challenges, effectively addressing issues
such as guilt or bereavement.
2. Peer support and group therapy. Using group
settings and peer support initiatives can
promote understanding and social support,
and EI principles increase empathy and
communication in these groups.
3. Long-term support. Continued access to
resources and support networks is essential
for sustained progress and prevention of
relapse, requiring long-term follow-up care
and community-based resources.
4. Education and awareness. Increasing
awareness among mental health
professionals, policymakers, and the public
of the importance of EI in trauma recovery
can promote greater adoption of EI-based
approaches and improve access to support
services for survivors.
In essence, prioritizing EI in post-trauma care
holds promise for strengthening post-trauma
psychological rehabilitation and resilience,
offering survivors a pathway to regain agency
and well-being in their lives.
Despite its merits, this research has some
drawbacks that need to be considered. The
study's main emphasis is on clinical cases, which
limits the applicability of the findings. Clinical
cases provide individual experiences, but they
are limited in their ability to capture the variety
of experiences that trauma survivors endure and
to account for the different cultural and
contextual factors that influence psychological
healing. These biases may affect the validity of
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/ February 2024
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the study's recommendations. There remains a
need for further exploration to ascertain the
effectiveness of EI interventions in fostering
sustained psychological well-being and adaptive
functioning among trauma survivors within
military environments.
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