Veterans with family support have better functional recovery and reintegration outcomes. However, families’ ability to support the veteran with PTSD’s rehabilitation and reintegration oftentimes is hindered by interpersonal challenges. We report findings of a qualitative study that examined OEF/OIF veterans with PTSD/TBI and their significant others’ (SOs’) perceptions of family functioning. We conducted 24 in-depth interviews with 12 veteran/SO dyads using an adapted version of the Family Assessment Device Structured Interview. Descriptive qualitative analytic methods were used to analyze the data. Data show that the impact of deployment and the resulting changes in the individuals and the family dynamics lingered years after the veterans returned home and had a lasting influence on veterans’ and SOs’ perceptions of family functioning. Most couples acknowledged growth in their relationships several years postdeployment. However, many continued to struggle with disruptions generated by deployment. Four themes emerged from the data: individual changes, coping strategies, relationship changes, and a “new normal.” Postdeployment family functioning was influenced by a dynamic interplay of individual and relationship factors and the development of coping strategies and a new normal. This study contributes to the understanding of the prolonged postdeployment family reintegration experiences of veterans and their SOs. Findings underscore the importance of continuing to advance the current knowledge base about the long-term impact of deployment on veterans and their families, especially factors that contribute to positive postdeployment family functioning. Additional empirical studies are needed to provide more in-depth understanding of the long-term postdeployment reintegration experiences of veterans and their families. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved)
Search Results
Library (1804)
Dictionary (741)
Research in Action (103)
Featured News (57)
Showing library results for: ALL
Filters: Research Summary
1 - 20 of 1804
Exploring the post-deployment reintegration experiences of veterans with PTSD and their significant others
APA Citation:
Freytes, I. M., LeLaurin, J. H., Zickmund, S. L., Resende, R. D., & Uphold, C. R. (2017). Exploring the post-deployment reintegration experiences of veterans with PTSD and their significant others. The American Journal of Orthopsychiatry, 87(2), 149-156. https://doi.org/10.1037/ort0000211
Focus:
Deployment
Mental health
Trauma
Veterans
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Share the article
Research & Summary
Freytes, I. Magaly; LeLaurin, Jennifer H.; Zickmund, Susan L.; Resende, Rosana D.; Uphold, Constance R.
2017
Thwarted belongingness as an explanatory link between insomnia symptoms and suicidal ideation: Findings from three samples of military service members and veterans
APA Citation:
Hom, M. A., Chu, C., Schneider, M. E., Lim, I. C., Hirsch, J. K., Gutierrez, P. M., & Joiner, T. E. (2017). Thwarted belongingness as an explanatory link between insomnia symptoms and suicidal ideation: Findings from three samples of military service members and veterans. Journal of Affective Disorders, 209, 114-123. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2016.11.032
Focus:
Deployment
Mental health
Veterans
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Aged (65 yrs & older)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Very old (85 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Share the article
Research & Summary
Hom, Melanie A.; Chu, Carol; Schneider, Matthew E.; Lim, Ingrid C.; Hirsch, Jameson K.; Gutierrez, Peter M.; Joiner, Thomas E.
2017
Background Although insomnia has been identified as a robust predictor of suicidal ideation and behaviors, little is known about the mechanisms by which sleep disturbances confer risk for suicide. We investigated thwarted belongingness as an explanatory link between insomnia symptoms and suicidal ideation across three military service member and veteran samples. Methods Data were collected among United States military service members and veterans (N1=937, N2=3,386, N3=417) who completed self-report measures of insomnia symptoms, thwarted belongingness, suicidal ideation, and related psychiatric symptoms (e.g., anxiety, hopelessness). Bias-corrected bootstrap mediation analyses were utilized to examine the indirect effects of insomnia symptoms on suicidal ideation through thwarted belongingness, controlling for related psychiatric symptoms. Results Consistent with study hypotheses, thwarted belongingness significantly accounted for the relationship between insomnia and suicidal ideation across all three samples; however, insomnia symptoms did not significantly account for the relationship between thwarted belongingness and suicidal ideation, highlighting the specificity of our findings. Limitations This study utilized cross-sectional self-report data. Conclusions Insomnia may confer suicide risk for military service members and veterans, in part, through the pathway of thwarted belongingness. Additional prospective studies are warranted to further delineate this model of risk. Our results offer a potential therapeutic target for the prevention of suicide, via the promotion of belongingness, among service members and veterans experiencing insomnia symptoms.
Social skills deficits as a mediator between PTSD symptoms and intimate partner aggression in returning veterans
APA Citation:
LaMotte, A. D., Taft, C. T., Weatherill, R. P., & Eckhardt, C. I. (2017). Social skills deficits as a mediator between PTSD symptoms and intimate partner aggression in returning Veterans. Journal of Family Psychology, 31(1), 105-110. http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/fam0000215
Focus:
Couples
Mental health
Trauma
Veterans
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Share the article
Research & Summary
LaMotte, Adam D.; Taft, Casey T.; Weatherill, Robin P.; Eckhardt, Christopher I.
2017
This study examined social skills deficits as a mediator of the relationship between posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and use of intimate partner aggression (IPA) among returning veterans. Prior research with veterans has focused on PTSD-related deficits at the decoding stage of McFall's (1982) social information processing model, and the current study adds to this literature by examining social skills deficits at the decision stage. Participants were 92 male veterans recruited from the greater Boston area. PTSD symptoms were assessed through clinician interview, IPA use was assessed through self- and partner report, and social skills deficits were assessed in a laboratory task in which veterans listened to a series of problematic marital situations and responded with what they would say or do in the situation. Responses were coded for social competency. Bivariate correlations revealed several significant associations among PTSD symptoms, social skills deficits, and use of IPA. When all PTSD symptom clusters were entered into a regression predicting social skills deficits, only emotional numbing emerged as a unique predictor. Finally, social skills deficits significantly mediated the relationship between veterans' PTSD symptoms and use of psychological (but not physical) IPA. Findings extend prior research on McFall's (1982) social information processing model as it relates to veterans' PTSD symptoms and use of IPA. More research is needed to understand the associations between PTSD symptoms and deficits at each individual step of this model. (PsycINFO Database Record; (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved).
Intimate partner stalking: Contributions to PTSD symptomatology among a national sample of women veterans
APA Citation:
Dardis, C. M., Amoroso, T., & Iverson, K. M. (2017). Intimate partner stalking: Contributions to PTSD symptomatology among a national sample of women Veterans. Psychological Trauma: Theory, Research, Practice, and Policy, 9(S1), 67-73. https://doi.org/10.1037/tra0000171
Focus:
Physical health
Trauma
Veterans
Mental health
Branch of Service:
Air Force
Army
Coast Guard
Marine Corps
Multiple branches
Navy
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Share the article
Research & Summary
Dardis, Christina M.; Amoroso, Timothy; Iverson, Katherine M.
2017
Objectives: Women veterans are at high risk for intimate partner violence (IPV), which has previously been defined as psychological, physical, or sexual violence from an intimate partner. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently added stalking to its uniform definition of IPV, but little is known about the occurrence of stalking victimization among women veterans who experience IPV, its overlap with other forms of IPV, and its contribution to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptomatology among this population.; Methods: Lifetime intimate partner stalking, as well as physical, sexual, and psychological IPV, was assessed as part of a larger study of women veterans who completed a 2014 Web-based survey (75% participation rate). Women with a history of IPV or stalking (55%, n = 225) completed the PTSD Checklist-5 to assess PTSD symptoms related to IPV and items assessing military sexual trauma and combat exposure.; Results: Among 225 women veterans with a history of IPV, approximately 64% (n = 145) reported lifetime stalking by an intimate partner. Women who experienced both stalking and other forms of IPV were 4.2 times more likely to experience probable PTSD than were women who experienced IPV without stalking, odds ratio (OR) = 4.18, 95% confidence interval (CI) [1.91, 9.13]. After adjusting for military sexual trauma and lifetime sum of other types of IPV, women who experienced partner stalking remained 2.5 times more likely than women without a history of partner stalking to experience probable PTSD, OR = 2.49, 95% CI [1.07, 5.78].; Conclusions: Stalking from an intimate partner is a common form of IPV experienced by women veterans that strongly contributes to risk for probable PTSD. In addition to other forms of IPV, identification and treatment efforts should attend to stalking victimization among this rapidly growing population. (PsycINFO Database Record; (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved).
Returning to civilian life: Family reintegration challenges and resilience of women veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars
APA Citation:
Leslie, L. A., & Koblinsky, S. A. (2017). Returning to civilian life: Family reintegration challenges and resilience of women veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. Journal of Family Social Work, 20(2), 106-123. https://doi.org/10.1080/10522158.2017.1279577
Focus:
Deployment
Mental health
Veterans
Branch of Service:
Air Force
Army
Marine Corps
Multiple branches
Navy
Military Affiliation:
Veteran
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Share the article
Research & Summary
Leslie, Leigh A.; Koblinsky, Sally A.
2017
The cohort of women who served in Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) was the largest group of women in history to serve in the military and be deployed to combat zones. This large cohort is now moving into veteran status as the numbers of deployed service members decreases. Upon separation from the military, many of these women step back into family roles and responsibilities. To date, there has been sparse research on how military service, particularly in Iraq and Afghanistan, has affected the family relationships, family functioning, and parenting of women veterans. In an effort to better understand the experiences of women veterans as they return to their families and civilian life, five focus groups were conducted with 29 veterans. Analysis of focus group transcripts revealed seven common challenges, ranging from adjustments to the civilian pace of life and developmental changes in children’s behavior to managing anger and difficult emotional interactions with family members. Women demonstrated strength and resilience in dealing with family challenges by employing four common strategies, such as making meaning of their military service, accessing veteran social support, and drawing on military-acquired skills. Implications of the findings for social work practice are discussed.
The role of PTSD, depression, and alcohol misuse symptom severity in linking deployment stressor exposure and post-military work and family outcomes in male and female veterans
APA Citation:
Smith, B. N., Taverna, E. C., Fox, A. B., Schnurr, P. P., Matteo, R. A., & Vogt, D. (2017). The Role of PTSD, depression, and alcohol misuse symptom severity in linking deployment stressor exposure and post-military work and family outcomes in male and female veterans. Clinical Psychological Science, 5(4), 664-682. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/2167702617705672
Focus:
Deployment
Mental health
Substance use
Veterans
Branch of Service:
Air Force
Army
Marine Corps
Multiple branches
Navy
Military Affiliation:
Veteran
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Share the article
Research & Summary
Smith, Brian N.; Taverna, Emily C.; Fox, Annie B.; Schnurr, Paula P.; Matteo, Rebecca A.; Vogt, Dawne
2017
Exposure to stressors during military deployment puts veterans at risk for reduced post-military quality of life. Stress-related mental health problems may lead to decreased well-being within work and family domains, yet few studies have explored associations in the context of gender. We examined relationships between deployment stressors and post-military functioning and satisfaction in the domains of work and family, with a focus on posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and alcohol misuse symptomatology as potential mediators. Participants included 522 male and female Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans assessed longitudinally. Structural equation models supported several direct and indirect pathways linking deployment stressors to work and family outcomes for both men and women. PTSD had an important role in these associations. Depression also played a significant role, particularly for women. These findings build on prior research by elucidating potential gender-specific risk, which may be applied to better tailor services to veterans’ unique needs.
Military sexual assault (MSA) among veterans in Southern California: Associations with physical health, psychological health, and risk behaviors
APA Citation:
Schuyler, A. C., Kintzle, S., Lucas, C. L., Moore, H., & Castro, C. A (2017). Military sexual assault (MSA) among veterans in Southern California: Associations with physical health, psychological health, and risk behaviors. Traumatology, 23(3), 223-234. http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/trm0000098
Focus:
Mental health
Substance use
Trauma
Veterans
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Aged (65 yrs & older)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Share the article
Research & Summary
Schuyler, Ashley C.; Kintzle, Sara; Lucas, Carrie L.; Moore, Hadass; Castro, Carl A.
2017
This study describes the relationship between military sexual assault (MSA) and various health and behavioral outcomes among a community-based sample of male (n = 2,208) and female (n = 327) veterans. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to assess the relationship of MSA with physical health symptoms (PHQ-15), probable posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD; PCL) and depression (PHQ-9), risk-taking behaviors, and alcohol use (AUDIT-C) among men and women. Among the sample, 4.8% of male and 40.6% of female veterans reported experiencing MSA. Men who experienced MSA had approximately 4 times the odds of physical health symptoms, and probable PTSD and depression, compared with those without MSA (p < .001 for all). Male veterans also had significantly increased odds of taking unnecessary health risks (p < .001), risking a sexually transmitted disease (STD; p = .005), driving while intoxicated (p = .022), taking unnecessary life risks (p < .001), and using tobacco (p = .012) in the last year if they had experienced MSA. Women who experienced MSA had approximately double the odds of physical health symptoms (p = .002), 3 times the odds of depressive symptoms (p < .001), and almost 7 times the odds of probable PTSD (p < .001). Female veterans with MSA also had significantly greater odds of taking unnecessary health risks (p = .003), taking unnecessary life risks (p = .001), and using tobacco (p = .003) in the last year than those without MSA. These findings highlight the unique treatment needs of male and female victims of MSA, the potential long-term impact of MSA, and the need for timely assessment of MSA to help mitigate negative health outcomes among veterans. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved)
8 Gender role stress mediates depression among veteran men with military sexual trauma
Gender role stress mediates depression among veteran men with military sexual trauma
APA Citation:
Juan, M.J.D., Nunnik, S.E., Butler, E.O., & Allard, C.B. (2017). Gender role stress mediates depression among veteran men with military sexual trauma. Psychology of Men & Masculinity, 18(3), 243-250. https://doi.org/10.1037/men0000120
Focus:
Mental health
Trauma
Veterans
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Aged (65 yrs & older)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Share the article
Research & Summary
Juan, Mary Joyce D.; Nunnink, Sarah E.; Butler, Ebony O.; Allard, Carolyn B.
2017
Compared with survivors of other types of trauma, survivors of sexual trauma, particularly military sexual trauma (MST), are at greater risk for posttraumatic distress. Although traditionally masculine aspects of gender identity may mitigate the deleterious effects of trauma (Valdez & Lilly, 2014), it may, in some cases, exacerbate negative outcomes. Sexual victimization may undermine traditional gender expectations of power among male survivors, potentially explaining the added risk associated with this type of trauma. These dynamics may be even more pronounced for veteran men, given their involvement in a military culture that highly values masculinity. Accordingly, we hypothesized that masculine gender role stress (i.e., stress from not upholding masculine gender norms; Eisler & Skidmore, 1987) would be greater among veteran men with MST than those with other interpersonal trauma and would mediate the relationship between MST and posttraumatic distress (i.e., posttraumatic stress disorder [PTSD] and depressive symptoms). We found that while veteran men with MST (n = 52) reported greater PTSD and depressive symptom severity compared to men without MST (n = 52), there was no significant difference in overall gender role stress. Ad hoc analyses exploring specific aspects of gender role stress found that men with MST reported greater gender role stress related to emotionality and intellectual inferiority. Additionally, gender role stress related to emotionality fully mediated the relationship between MST and depression but not PTSD. The vulnerability and intense emotions that accompany MST are discussed in the context of gender role expectations and in terms of clinical implications. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved)
Intimate partner violence, unhealthy alcohol use, and housing instability among women veterans in the Veterans Health Administration
APA Citation:
Dichter, M. E., Wagner, C., Borrero, S., Broyles, L., & Montgomery, A. E. (2017). Intimate partner violence, unhealthy alcohol use, and housing instability among women veterans in the veterans health administration. Psychological services, 14(2), 246-249. http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/ser0000132
Focus:
Mental health
Physical health
Programming
Substance use
Trauma
Veterans
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Share the article
Research & Summary
Dichter, Melissa E.; Wagner, Clara; Borrero, Sonya; Broyles, Lauren; Montgomery, Ann Elizabeth
2017
Women U.S. military veterans face particularly high rates of homelessness, which may be associated with psychosocial experiences including unhealthy alcohol use and experience of intimate partner violence (IPV). In this study, we examined clinical social health screening data to assess the association between housing instability and (a) experience of past-year IPV victimization, and (b) unhealthy alcohol use among 554 women receiving primary care from the Veterans Health Administration. Approximately 12% of patients screened reported housing instability. Experience of past-year IPV was associated with increased risk of housing instability (OR = 2.10, 95% CI [1.16, 3.81]), with 1 in 5 women screening positive for IPV also reporting housing concern. There was no statistically significant association between current unhealthy alcohol use and housing instability. Findings hold implications for addressing potential housing concerns among women VA patients. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved)
10 A different kind of battle: The effects of NICU admission on military parent mental health
A different kind of battle: The effects of NICU admission on military parent mental health
APA Citation:
Anchan, J., Jones, S., Aden, J., Ditch, S., Fagiana, A., Blauvelt, D., ... & Carr, N. (2021). A different kind of battle: The effects of NICU admission on military parent mental health. Journal of Perinatology, 41, 2038 - 2047. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41372-021-00994-y
Focus:
Parents
Branch of Service:
Air Force
Army
Coast Guard
Multiple branches
Navy
Military Affiliation:
Active Duty
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Share the article
Research & Summary
Anchan, Joshua; Jones, Shallimar; Aden, Jay; Ditch, Sarah; Fagiana, Angela; Blauvelt, Donia; Cristina, Maria; Carr, Nicholas
2021
Objective To determine the incidence of mental health symptoms in military families after prolonged NICU admission. Study design Prospective cohort study of military-affiliated NICU parents participating in serial electronic surveys, which included validated screening tools for acute stress (ASD), post-traumatic stress (PTSD), and depression disorders. Results Among 106 military parents surveyed after NICU admission, 24.5% screened positive for ASD and 28.3% for depression. 77 (72.6%) parents continued participation beyond discharge, with 7.8% screening positive for PTSD and 15.6% for late depression. Positive ASD correlated with later symptoms of PTSD (OR 8.4 [2.4–30]) and early depression with both PTSD symptoms (OR 5.7 [1.7–18.8]) and late depression (OR 8.4 [2.4–30]) after discharge. Secondary analysis determined these findings were independent of deployment and other military related factors. Conclusion This study highlights the potential mental health burden experienced by military-affiliated NICU parents. Early ASD and depression screening may identify parents at risk for mental health symptoms after discharge.
11 Parenting under pressure: A mixed-methods investigation of the impact of COVID-19 on family life
Parenting under pressure: A mixed-methods investigation of the impact of COVID-19 on family life
APA Citation:
Chu, K. A., Schwartz, C., Towner, E., Kasparian, N. A., & Callaghan, B. (2021). Parenting under pressure: A mixed-methods investigation of the impact of COVID-19 on family life. Journal of Affective Disorders, 5, 100161. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jadr.2021.100161
Focus:
Children
Mental health
Other
Parents
Physical health
Population:
School age (6 - 12 yrs)
Adolescence (13 - 17 yrs)
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Share the article
Research & Summary
Chu, Kristen A.; Schwartz, Chloe; Towner, Emily; Kasparian, Nadine A.; Callaghan, Bridget
2021
Background development and implementation of effective family-based psychosocial intervention and treatment strategies during COVID-19 will require a detailed understanding of how the virus has impacted the lives of families. Methods written reports on the life impacts of COVID-19 for parents (n = 56) and their children (n = 43), and a questionnaire assessing parent positive and negative affect, were collected between April and May 2020. An inductive approach was used to identify themes in written reports, followed by statistical analysis to explore associations between themes and changes in parent positive and negative affect pre- and post-writing. Results parents and children reported both positive and negative psychosocial impacts of the virus, though parents expressed a greater diversity of positive themes than children. Common themes reported by parents included concerns about the impact of COVID-19 on their children, health concerns for others, and the stressful balancing act of parenting, assisting with children's school work, and working from home. Many parents reported gratitude, and reflected on the upsides of the pandemic for family relationships and parent-child bonding. Parents who expressed gratitude reported a decrease in negative affect pre- to post-writing. Common child-reported themes included yearning to return to school, pandemic-related fears, and longing for social connection. Limitations the sample included a cross-section of mostly White (non-Hispanic), dual income, well-educated mothers, primarily from the United States. Conclusions both parents and children reported reduced wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Future research should focus on identifying how to fulfill children's social needs and lessen caregivers’ burdens during this time.
12 Abusive relationship and its associated factors between deployed and un-deployed veterans in college
Abusive relationship and its associated factors between deployed and un-deployed veterans in college
APA Citation:
Min, H. (2021). Abusive relationship and its associated factors between deployed and un-deployed veterans in college. Journal of Interpersonal Violence, 36(5/6), 2227–2240. https://doi.org/10.1177/0886260518758331
Focus:
Couples
Deployment
Mental health
Veterans
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Veteran
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Share the article
Research & Summary
Min, Hosik
2021
This study is to examine the effect of student veteran status on abusive relationships, namely, emotional, physical, and sexual abuse. In addition, this study divided student veterans into two groups, deployed and un-deployed veterans, to see whether two groups demonstrate different results on abusive relationships. Logistic regression models were employed as a statistical strategy using the 2011-2014 American College Health Association National College Health Assessment II (ACHA-NCHA-II) data. The results found that deployed veterans were more likely to experience physical abuse, while un-deployed veterans were more likely to experience emotional abuse. Student veterans did not show any significant relationship with sexual abuse regardless deployment experience. It would be appropriate to consider the results of this study to address abusive relationships among student veterans, which help them to not only adjust college life but also succeed in careers and have healthy family relationships.
Veterans’ treatment engagement and dropout from couple and family therapy in a veterans affairs health care system
APA Citation:
Norona, J. C., Borsari, B., Armstrong, K., & Shonkwiler, S. (2021). Veterans’ treatment engagement and dropout from couple and family therapy in a Veterans Affairs health care system. Military Behavioral Health, 9(2) 223-237. https://doi.org/10.1080/21635781.2020.1864526
Focus:
Children
Couples
Mental health
Parents
Programming
Veterans
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Air Force
Army
Coast Guard
Marine Corps
Navy
Military Affiliation:
Veteran
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Aged (65 yrs & older)
Share the article
Research & Summary
Norona, Jerika C.; Borsari, Brian; Armstrong, Keith; Shonkwiler, Sarah
2020
The present study utilizes data from a Couple and Family Therapy Program in the Veterans Affairs Health Care System (VAHCS) seeks to understand veterans’ and their family members’ treatment engagement and dropout from initial referral for therapy to the active phase of treatment. Veterans (N = 177) referred to couple or family therapy were included in the study, and data about session attendance was collected through chart reviews. About 60% of couples and families dropped out at some point between referral to entering the active phase of treatment. Results showed that the majority of dropout occurred between the phone screen and the first session, with significant attrition also occurring between the first session and the assessment phase of treatment. In examining individual, relational, and logistical factors, a chronic pain diagnosis and serving during the Post-9/11 era were related to completion of various phases of therapy. Findings have implications for enhancing efforts to engage and retain veterans and their family members in treatment. Specific strategies for clinicians are discussed, with a focus on the shift to telehealth in the VAHCS and other health care settings in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
14 High-risk and long-term opioid prescribing to military spouses in the Millennium Cohort Family Study
High-risk and long-term opioid prescribing to military spouses in the Millennium Cohort Family Study
APA Citation:
McDonald, D. C., Radakrishnan, S., Sparks, A. C., Corry, N. H., Carballo, C. E., Carlson, K., & Stander, V. A. (2020). High-risk and long-term opioid prescribing to military spouses in the Millennium Cohort Family Study. Military Medicine, 185(9-10), e1759-e1769. https://doi.org/10.1093/milmed/usaa146
Focus:
Mental health
Other
Physical health
Substance use
Branch of Service:
Air Force
Army
Marine Corps
Navy
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Active Duty
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Share the article
Research & Summary
McDonald, Douglas C.; Radakrishnan, Sharmini; Sparks, Alicia C.; Corry, Nida H.; Carballo, Carlos E.; Carlson, Kenneth; Stander, Valerie A.
2020
Introduction The use and misuse of opioids by active service members has been examined in several studies, but little is known about their spouses’ opioid use. This study estimates the number of military spouses who received high-risk or long-term opioid prescriptions between 2010 and 2014, and addresses how the Military Health System can help prevent risky prescribing in order to improve military force readiness. Materials and Methods This study used data from the Millennium Cohort Family Study, a nationwide survey of 9,872 spouses of service members with 2 to 5 years of military service, augmented with information from the military’s Pharmacy Data Transaction Service about prescriptions for controlled drugs dispensed to these service members’ spouses. Our objectives were to estimate the prevalence of opioid prescribing indicative of long-term use (≥60 day supply or at least one extended-release opioid prescription in any 3-month period) and, separately, high-risk use (daily dosage of ≥90 morphine mg equivalent or total dosage of ≥8,190 morphine mg equivalent, or prescriptions from more than three pharmacies, or concurrent prescriptions). For each of these dependent variables, we conducted bivariate analyses and multiple logistic regression models using information about spouses’ physical health, sociodemographic characteristics, substance use behaviors, perceived social support, and stresses associated with military stress, among others. Informed consent, including consent to link survey responses to medical and personnel records, was obtained from all participants. The Naval Health Research Center’s Institutional Review Board and the Office of Management and Budget approved the study. Results Spouses were predominantly female (86%), had not served in the military themselves (79%), and were spouses of enlisted (91%) active duty (86%) service members. Almost half (47.6%) of spouses obtained at least one opioid prescription during the 2-year observation window, and 8.5% had received opioid prescriptions that posed risk to their health. About 7% met the criteria for receipt of high-risk opioid prescriptions, 3% obtained opioids from three or more pharmacies during a 3-month period, and 4% of spouses who received any opioids received both long-term and high-risk prescriptions. Adverse childhood experiences, physical pain, and lack of social support were associated with increased odds of obtaining high-risk opioid prescriptions. Conclusions Approximately 48% of military spouses had used Military Health System insurance to fill at least one opioid prescription during the 2-year observation period. The Department of Defense has taken measures to minimize high-risk opioid prescribing, including passing prescribing guidelines in 2017, establishing the controlled drug management analysis reporting tool, establishing a pain management education and training program, and more. These efforts should continue to expand as reducing the numbers of service members and spouses at risk for adverse events may be effective in reducing opioid misuse and improve the overall health and safety of military spouses and thus, the readiness of the U.S. Armed Forces.
“A part of our family”? Effects of psychiatric service dogs on quality of life and relationship functioning in military-connected couples
APA Citation:
McCall, C. E., Rodriguez, K. E., MacDermid Wadsworth, S. M., Meis, L. A., & O’Haire, M. E. (2020). “A part of our family?” Effects of psychiatric service dogs on quality of life and relationship functioning in military-connected couples. Military Behavioral Health, 8(4), 410-423. https://doi.org/10.1080/21635781.2020.1825243
Focus:
Couples
Veterans
Branch of Service:
Air Force
Army
Marine Corps
Multiple branches
Navy
Military Affiliation:
Veteran
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Share the article
Research & Summary
McCall, Christine E.; Rodriguez, Kerri E.; Wadsworth, Shelley M. MacDermid; Meis, Laura A.; O’Haire, Marguerite E.
2020
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can have corrosive impacts on family relationships and individual functioning. Emerging evidence has shown that psychiatric service dogs may be an effective complementary treatment for military veterans with PTSD, benefiting veterans’ mental and social health. However, few studies have examined the effects of psychiatric service dogs on the family members of veterans, specifically their partners. Mixed-methods data from 60 veteran-partner dyads examined individual and relationship functioning among partners of veterans paired with a service dog (service dog group; n = 37) and those awaiting placement (waitlist group; n = 23). While there were no statistically significant differences across groups, the effect sizes for group differences suggested that partners in the service dog group (relative to those on the waitlist) may experience higher levels of resilience and companionship, and lower levels of anger, social isolation, and work impairment. A topical survey of partner qualitative data within the service dog group indicated that service dogs provided more benefits than challenges. Partners reported improvements in veteran functioning, family relationships, and partners’ quality of life. Results, although preliminary, suggest that psychiatric service dogs may provide modest positive experiences for some veteran family systems.
A sector wheel approach to understanding the needs and barriers to services among homeless-experienced veteran families
APA Citation:
Ijadi-Maghsoodi, R., Feller, S., Ryan, G. W., Altman, L., Washington, D. L., Kataoka, S., & Gelberg, L. (2021). A sector wheel approach to understanding the needs and barriers to services among homeless-experienced veteran families. The Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine, 34(2), 309–319. https://doi.org/10.3122/jabfm.2021.02.200331
Focus:
Children
Veterans
Parents
Mental health
Physical health
Programming
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Veteran
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Share the article
Research & Summary
Ijadi-Maghsoodi, Roya; Feller, Sophie; Ryan, Gery W.; Altman, Lisa; Washington, Donna L.; Kataoka, Sheryl; Gelberg, Lillian
2021
Background: Veteran family homelessness is a significant issue, yet little is known about the needs and barriers to services of veteran families experiencing homelessness. This qualitative study examined the experiences, needs, and barriers to services among homeless-experienced veteran families to inform providers for this important population. Methods: Twenty-five semi-structured interviews were conducted from February through September 2016 with 18 veteran parents with a recent history of homelessness (9 mothers, 9 fathers), and 7 homeless service providers throughout Los Angeles County. The “Sector Wheel for Under-Resourced Populations” data elicitation approach was used to conduct the interviews, which allowed the participant to guide the interview by discussing different sectors of a family's life affected by homelessness. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and themes were coded with Atlas.ti. Results: Interviews revealed parenting stress and worsening family mental health during homelessness. Participants described barriers to navigating housing, social, and health services with children, including not knowing where to seek help, difficulty connecting to health and social services in the community, and a lack of family-focused services. Parents encountered discrimination by landlords and lack of access to permanent housing in safe neighborhoods. Conclusions: Findings demonstrate a need for delivering family-centered and comprehensive services to homeless-experienced veteran families that recognize the multifaceted needs of this population. Advocacy initiatives are needed to address discrimination against veterans experiencing family homelessness and increase access to affordable permanent housing in safe neighborhoods for families.
The association between anger experiences and expression and veteran suicidal thoughts in intimate couple relationships
APA Citation:
Wilks, C. R., Khalifian, C. E., Glynn, S. M., & Morland, L. A. (2020). The association between anger experiences and expression and veteran suicidal thoughts in intimate couple relationships. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 76(10), 1869-1881. https://doi.org/10.1002/jclp.22960
Focus:
Mental health
Couples
Veterans
Branch of Service:
Army
Air Force
Navy
Marine Corps
Coast Guard
Marine Corps
Military Affiliation:
Veteran
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Share the article
Research & Summary
Wilks, Chelsey R.; Khalifian, Chandra E.; Glynn, Shirley M.; Morland, Leslie A.
2020
Objective Anger has been identified as a risk factor for suicide in veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), theoretically because it erodes social support networks. In romantic relationships, the transactional properties of anger on suicidal ideation (SI) have not been explored. Methods Veterans (n = 138) and their significant others (S-Os; total N = 276) completed assessments on anger and SI as part of a baseline assessment in a treatment outcome study for veterans with PTSD and their S-Os. Actor Partner Interdependence Moderation Model (APIMoM) with Multilevel Modeling (MLM) was conducted. Results Veteran and S-Os verbal and anger expression were associated with veteran's SI, while S-Os' physical anger expression was associated with veteran's SI. S-Os' feeling angry was associated with veteran's SI. Veteran angry temperament was associated with veteran SI. Discussion Anger should be considered an assessment and treatment target in veterans with PTSD with SI and their S-Os.
Relations between post-deployment divorce/separation and deployment and post-deployment stressors, social support, and symptomatology in veterans with combat-related PTSD symptoms
APA Citation:
Gros, D. F., Lancaster, C. L., Teves, J. B., & Acierno, R. (2019). Relations between post-deployment divorce/separation and deployment and post-deployment stressors, social support, and symptomatology in Veterans with combat-related PTSD symptoms. Journal of Military, Veteran, and Family Health, 5(2), 125-135. https://doi.org/10.3138/jmvfh.2018-0015
Focus:
Deployment
Mental health
Physical health
Trauma
Veterans
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Veteran
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Share the article
Research & Summary
Gros, Daniel F.; Lancaster, Cynthia L.; Teves, Jenna B.; Libet, Julian; Acierno, Ron
2019
Introduction: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a highly prevalent diagnosis in combat Veterans. In addition to reduced quality of life in various domains of functioning, PTSD also is associated with poorer relationships and social support, including marital dissatisfaction and divorce. Although post-deployment divorce/separation was noted as problematic in past conflicts, little is known about divorce/separation following modern conflicts, such as Operations Enduring/Iraqi Freedom (OEF/OIF). The present study investigated the relations between post-deployment divorce/separation and post-deployment stressors, social support, and psychiatric symptomatology in OEF/OIF Veterans seeking treatment for PTSD. Methods: We recruited 98 United States (US) male Veterans from OEF/OIF to participate in the study. Marital status of once-married was required for participation. All participants completed consent documentation and a series of diagnostic interviews and self-report measures. Participants were separated into two groups based on their post-deployment marital status (still married vs. divorced/separated). Results: One-third of the sample indicated they divorced/separated following OEF/OIF. Participants that endorsed a post-deployment divorce/separation demonstrated heightened stress during and after deployment as well as significantly less social support compared to participants who remained married. Discussion: The rates of divorce/separation reported in the sample were comparable to samples of the general American population, despite the elevated risk factors in the Veteran sample (e.g., psychiatric diagnosis). Also, Veterans reporting post-deployment divorce/separation endorsed heightened stress and poorer social support, two factors associated with poorer treatment outcome for PTSD. Together, these findings highlight potential factors associated with post-deployment divorce/separation in OEF/OIF Veterans with PTSD.
19 Food insecurity: Comparing odds between working-age veterans and nonveterans with children
Food insecurity: Comparing odds between working-age veterans and nonveterans with children
APA Citation:
Kamdar, N., Lester, H. F., Daundasekara, S. S., Greer, A. E., Hundt, N. E., Utech, A., & Hernandez, D. C. (2021). Food insecurity: Comparing odds between working-age veterans and nonveterans with children. Nursing Outlook, 69(2), 212-220. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.outlook.2020.08.011
Focus:
Other
Veterans
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Veteran
Population:
Adolescence (13 - 17 yrs)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Share the article
Research & Summary
Kamdar, Nipa; Lester, Houston F.; Daundasekara, Sajeevika Saumali; Greer, Anna E.; Hundt, Natalie E.; Utech, Anne; Hernandez, Daphne C.
2021
Background Low-income, working-age Veterans with children have risk for food insecurity. Less known is extent to which their risk compares to nonveterans. Purpose To evaluate odds of food insecurity for working-age Veterans with children compared to socioeconomically-matched nonveterans with children. Method We constructed a propensity score-matched cohort using 2011–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data. Covariate-adjusted logistic regressions estimated Veterans’ odds for overall food insecurity and for each level of severity compared to nonveterans. Findings We matched 155 Veterans to 310 nonveterans on gender, race/ethnicity, education, income. Models were adjusted for age, marital-status, depression, and listed matched variables. Although Veteran-status had no effect on overall food insecurity (odds ratio = 1.09, 95% confidence interval [0.62,1.93]), Veteran-status increased odds for very low food security (odds ratio = 2.71, 95% confidence interval [1.21, 6.07]). Discussion Veterans do not have higher odds of food insecurity than non-veterans, but they are more likely to have the more severe very low food security (often associated with hunger) than non-veterans. Investigation of food insecurity's impact on Veteran health/well-being is needed.
Veterans’ treatment engagement and dropout from couple and family therapy in a veterans affairs health care system
APA Citation:
Norona, J. C., Borsari, B., Armstrong, K., & Shonkwiler, S. (2021). Veterans’ treatment engagement and dropout from couple and family therapy in a Veterans Affairs health care system. Military Behavioral Health, 9(2) 223-237. https://doi.org/10.1080/21635781.2020.1864526
Focus:
Children
Couples
Mental health
Parents
Programming
Veterans
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Air Force
Army
Coast Guard
Marine Corps
Navy
Military Affiliation:
Veteran
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Aged (65 yrs & older)
Share the article
Research & Summary
Norona, Jerika C.; Borsari, Brian; Armstrong, Keith; Shonkwiler, Sarah
2020
The present study utilizes data from a Couple and Family Therapy Program in the Veterans Affairs Health Care System (VAHCS) seeks to understand veterans’ and their family members’ treatment engagement and dropout from initial referral for therapy to the active phase of treatment. Veterans (N = 177) referred to couple or family therapy were included in the study, and data about session attendance was collected through chart reviews. About 60% of couples and families dropped out at some point between referral to entering the active phase of treatment. Results showed that the majority of dropout occurred between the phone screen and the first session, with significant attrition also occurring between the first session and the assessment phase of treatment. In examining individual, relational, and logistical factors, a chronic pain diagnosis and serving during the Post-9/11 era were related to completion of various phases of therapy. Findings have implications for enhancing efforts to engage and retain veterans and their family members in treatment. Specific strategies for clinicians are discussed, with a focus on the shift to telehealth in the VAHCS and other health care settings in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Showing dictionary results for:
1 More than a Flag: A Symbol of Hope, Bravery, Unity, and Mission
Posted by Sherman, Haley and Short-Smith, Kaylee
2 AMBIGUOUS LOSS AMONG MILITARY FAMILIES
Posted by Gordon, Bri
3 MILITARY FAMILY READINESS: AN OVERVIEW
Posted by Wright, Emily, L. Tidwell, Allison, and Hanson, Emily
4 SPOUSE EDUCATION AND CAREER OPPORTUNITIES: WHAT IS SECO?
Posted by Gordon, Bri
5 How to be thrifty with the Thrift Savings Plan
Posted by Saxey, Matthew
6 A HIDDEN CRISIS: WOMEN'S POSTPARTUM MENTAL HEALTH
Posted by Sherman, Haley
7 RED, WHITE, AND MERRY: CELEBRATING HOLIDAYS IN THE MILITARY
Posted by Garnes, Melissa
HALEY SHERMAN: CINDY WINTER SCHOLARSHIP AWARD RECIPIENT
Posted on August 16, 2023
COLLEGE OF HUMAN SCIENCES RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM
Posted on March 17, 2023
ALLISON TIDWELL SUCCESSFULLY DEFENDS HER THESIS
Posted on November 15, 2022
DR. DAVINA QUICHOCHO DEFENDS HER DISSERTATION
Posted on July 19, 2022
DR. NICK FRYE-COX ACCEPTS FACULTY POSITION
Posted on June 30, 2022
ALLISON TIDWELL, AWARD WINNING STUDENT
Posted on April 18, 2022
2021 EXCELLENCE IN RESEARCH ON MILITARY AND VETERAN FAMILIES AWARD
Posted on February 25, 2022
Showing monthly topics for:
FINANCIAL READINESS FOR MILITARY FAMILIES
Posted by Rea, Jenny
CULTIVATING COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
Posted by Sherman, Haley
MY EXPERIENCE AS A “MILITARY BRAT” MAY LOOK DIFFERENT THAN YOURS
Posted by Faulk, Killian
THE AT-HOME PARTNERS' GUIDE TO HEALTHY BEHAVIORS
Posted by Krumm, Allie; Military REACH, Research Team
WORK-LINKED COUPLES: NAVIGATING SCHEDULES AND EXPERIENCES
Posted by Farnsworth, Meredith; Frye, Nick
You Can't Pour From an Empty Cup
Posted by Farnsworth, Meredith; Military REACH, Research Team
Parent-Child Communication during Deployment
Posted by Sherman, Haley; Military REACH, Research Team
Let’s Talk about Sleep
Posted by Tidwell, Allison; Military REACH, Research Team
Four Tips for Couple Communication during Deployment
Posted by Nichols, Lucy; Military REACH, Research Team
