Date

11-13-2025

Department

School of Behavioral Sciences

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD)

Chair

Kristin Kellen

Keywords

PTSD, evidence-based therapy, grace, hope, forgiveness

Disciplines

Psychology

Abstract

This study examined how theological concepts might enhance PTSD treatment outcomes by challenging existing paradigms within evidence-based interventions. While some therapeutic models acknowledge the value of integrating theological concepts within treatment, little empirical evidence explains how emphasizing the theological concepts that may already exist within evidence-based strategies may enhance the overall efficacy of treatment. In this study, an experimental group received strategies emphasizing grace, hope, and forgiveness, while a control group received strategies without these emphases. The PCL-5 psychometric assessment tool was used to measure changes across two 4-week PTSD programs that incorporated 48 strategies from the same four therapeutic modalities, 24 of which were selected for their theological emphasis and applied to the experimental group. Between January and June 2025, 56 participants were divided into smaller cohorts of up to nine individuals, collectively forming one experimental group and one control group. Data sets were analyzed using a repeated measures ANOVA and a thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews, yielding both quantitative and qualitative findings on the overall impact of grace, hope, and forgiveness within PTSD intervention. Results demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in PTSD symptom severity among participants in the experimental group compared to the control group, as well as qualitative themes indicating greater emotional restoration, spiritual meaning, and resilience.

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