ABSTRACT
Previous studies on posttraumatic growth (PTG) have focused on individuals and factors influencing it (e.g., cognition style and self-efficacy). However, only a few studies have examined PTG at the social level. This chapter discusses the effects of perceived stigma and social identity on PTG in the context of COVID-19. The development of perceived stigma in general and in relation to COVID-19, in particular, is examined, and such stigma as a source of strength and opportunity for PTG is explained using a social identity approach. Two empirical studies are presented to demonstrate the associations among perceived stigma associated with COVID-19 and the emergence of PTG and to highlight how infectious-disease-related stigma may facilitate PTG by constructing social identity.
