Purpose:This study attempts to elucidate the psychosocial impact of atomic bombingson successive generations of survivorsby examining the second generation of hibakusha(A-bomb survivors) from the perspective of intergenerational transmission of trauma and Post-traumatic growth (PTG). Specifically, we examine how the second generation hears survivor’s experiences and relate with survivors.
Method:The participants were fifteen second-generation survivors (SGS) of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombing.Data were collected using a semi-structured interview. Data were analyzed using the modified version of grounded theory approach.
Results:Four categories were extracted as experiences SGS hears parents’ survivors experiences and relate with survivors; ‘Parents' untold stories’, ‘Experiences of hearing to parents’ stories’, ‘Attitudes toward listening to parents’ stories’ and ‘Commitment toparents’ survivors experiences’.
Discussion: In this study, parents avoided talking about their survivor’ experiences when a topic about radiation exposure came up in conversation. The parents’ attitudes made SGS avoid referring to the parents’ experiences. It’s suggested that survivors’ avoidance and intrusive rumination suggest reaction of trauma. Additionally, having experienced vicariously their parents' pain caused by the A-bomb and understand it emphatically. SGS’ emphatic understanding and active learning suggest Vicarious PTG. These results suggest the possibility thatPTG could be intergenerational transmitted.