Objectives We examined links between marital quality and loneliness among aging veterans and explored whether veterans’ PTSD symptom severity moderated these associations. Methods Data came from 269 Vietnam-Era combat veterans who had a spouse/partner (M age = 60.50). Utilizing two waves of data spanning six years, we estimated multiple regression models that included positive and negative marital quality, PTSD symptom severity, and loneliness in 2010 as predictors of loneliness in 2016. Results Facets of positive (but not negative) marital quality were associated with veterans’ loneliness. Companionship – spousal affection and understanding – was associated with lower subsequent loneliness among veterans with low/moderate – but not high – PTSD symptom severity. Conversely, sociability – the degree to which one’s marriage promotes socializing with others – was associated with lower subsequent loneliness regardless of PTSD symptom severity. Conclusions Companionship and sociability were each associated with veterans’ subsequent loneliness. Whereas benefits of companionship were attenuated at higher levels of PTSD symptom severity, benefits of sociability were not.
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Marital quality and loneliness among aging Vietnam-era combat veterans: The moderating role of PTSD symptom severity
APA Citation:
Marini, C. M., Yorgason, J. B., Pless Kaiser, A., & Erickson, L. D. (2023). Marital quality and loneliness among aging Vietnam-era combat veterans: The moderating role of PTSD symptom severity. Clinical Gerontologist. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1080/07317115.2023.2274052
Focus:
Veterans
Mental health
Couples
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Veteran
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Aged (65 yrs & older)
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Research & Summary
Marini, Christina M.; Yorgason, Jeremy B.; Pless Kaiser, Anica; Erickson, Lance D.
2023
2 Women veterans’ attitudes toward family involvement in PTSD treatment: A mixed-methods examination
Women veterans’ attitudes toward family involvement in PTSD treatment: A mixed-methods examination
APA Citation:
Reuman, L., & Thompson-Hollands, J. (2023). Women veterans’ attitudes toward family involvement in PTSD treatment: A mixed-methods examination. Psychological Services, 20(4), 770-779. https://doi.org/10.1037/ser0000707
Focus:
Veterans
Mental health
Trauma
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Veteran
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
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Research & Summary
Reuman, Lillian; Thompson-Hollands, Johanna
2023
Family member (FM) involvement in treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has the potential to enhance veterans’ sense of support and connection and reduce treatment dropout. Little is known, however, about women veterans’ preferences, concerns, and goals regarding FM involvement in PTSD treatment. The study employed a mixed-methods approach consisting of surveys (n = 143) and interviews (n = 10) with women veterans seeking treatment for PTSD in a Veterans Affairs medical center. Married and partnered women veterans, and women veterans who identified as gay/lesbian, were more likely to be open to FM involvement. Results revealed a range of preferences and goals regarding FM involvement. Women veterans expressed a preference for joint sessions at the midpoint or near the end of treatment. Veterans’ goals for FM involvement included enhancing the relationship with their FM and providing the FM with a basic understanding of PTSD. Conclusions, limitations, and future directions are discussed.
3 Exploring veteran cultural competency in Canadian health care services
Exploring veteran cultural competency in Canadian health care services
APA Citation:
Tam-Seto, L., Williams, A., & Cramm, H. (2023). Exploring veteran cultural competency in Canadian health care services. Journal of Military, Veteran and Family Health, 9(4), 100–110. https://doi.org/10.3138/jmvfh-2022-0073
Focus:
Veterans
Other
Branch of Service:
International Military
Military Affiliation:
Veteran
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
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Research & Summary
Tam-Seto, Linna; Williams, Ashley; Cramm, Heidi
2023
On leaving the military, Canadian Armed Forces Veterans begin receiving health care services in the civilian community. Health care providers may not understand the military culture from which Veterans come, and how military service can affect health and well-being. The purpose of this study was to identify what civilian health care providers need to know and do to provide culturally competent care to Canadian Veterans. Veterans and health care providers (family physicians and an occupational therapist) were interviewed, and specific knowledge, skills, and abilities were identified as important when establishing a quality health care relationship. This information can be used to develop resources for health care providers when beginning work with Veterans and their families, as well as for Veterans themselves as they transition to receiving care in civilian systems.
Adverse childhood experiences and positive childhood experiences among United States military children
APA Citation:
Crouch, E., Andersen, T. S., & Smith, H. P. (2023). Adverse childhood experiences and positive childhood experiences among United States military children. Military Medicine, usad416. https://doi.org/10.1093/milmed/usad416
Focus:
Children
Trauma
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Active Duty
Population:
Adolescence (13 - 17 yrs)
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Research & Summary
Crouch, Elizabeth; Andersen, Tia S.; Smith, Hayden P.
2023
Many facets of military life are contributors to child health including frequent mobility, family separation, and increased risk to parental physical and mental health, as well as strong social networks and military support systems; yet, there has not been an examination of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and positive childhood experiences (PCEs) among military children.This study used the 2020–2021 National Survey of Children’s Health, limited to children aged 6 to 17 years of age, to examine the association between a child who has ever had a caregiver on active duty and their exposure to ACEs and PCEs (n = 54,256 children). Bivariate analyses used Pearson’s chi-squared tests and were weighted to be nationally representative. Multivariable regression models were used to examine the association between military status and selected ACEs.There were no statistically significant differences in PCEs between military and civilian children. Compared to children with a civilian caregiver, children who had a caregiver who had ever served on active duty had a higher odds of experiencing domestic violence (adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR), 1.61; 95% CI 1.23–2.11), mental health issues or depression in the household (aOR 1.28; 95% CI 1.07–1.52), and substance use (aOR 1.28; 95% CI 1.06–1.55).This study complements and extends previous research that has taken a deficit approach and focused exclusively on the hardships faced by children in military families. The findings from this study may be instructive for child welfare advocates and policymakers as they intervene in communities with programming that promotes PCEs among children and adolescents.
‘Whether it’s your weapon or not, it’s your home’: US military spouse perspectives on personal firearm storage
APA Citation:
Betz, M. E., Meza, K., Friedman, K., Moceri-Brooks, J., Johnson, M. L., Simonetti, J., Baker, J. C., Bryan, C. J., & Anestis, M. D. (2023). “Whether it’s your weapon or not, it’s your home”: US military spouse perspectives on personal firearm storage. BMJ Military Health. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1136/military-2023-002591
Focus:
Couples
Other
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Veteran
Guard
Reserve
Active Duty
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
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Research & Summary
Betz, Marian E.; Meza, K.; Friedman, K.; Moceri-Brooks, J.; Johnson, M. L.; Simonetti, J.; Baker, J. C.; Bryan, C. J.; Anestis, M. D.
2023
Introduction In the USA, an estimated 45% of veterans personally own firearms. Firearm access increases the risk of suicide, so suicide prevention efforts in the US Department of Defense (DoD) focus on lethal means safety, including reducing firearm access. Spouse input may enhance effective messaging and intervention delivery of lethal means safety. This study used qualitative methods to explore the perspectives of military spouses or partners on personal firearm storage, including at-home decisions, on-base storage and existing messaging from the DoD. Materials and methods Qualitative data were obtained using 1:1 interviews and focus groups with spouses/partners of US military service members (active duty, Reserve, National Guard, recently separated from the military) and representatives from military support organisations. Sessions focused on personal firearm storage (at home or on military installations) and military messaging around secure firearm storage and firearm suicide prevention. Data were analysed using a team-based, mixed deductive–inductive approach. Results Across 56 participants (August 2022–March 2023), the themes were variability in current home firearm storage and spousal participation in decision-making; uncertainty about firearm storage protocols on military installations; mixed awareness of secure firearm storage messaging from the military; and uncertainty about procedures or protocols for removing firearm access for an at-risk person. Conclusion US military spouses are important messengers for firearm safety and suicide prevention, but they are currently underutilised. Tailored prevention campaigns should consider spousal dynamics and incorporate education about installation procedures.
6 Unmet needs and coping strategies of older underserved veterans during the COVID-19 pandemic
Unmet needs and coping strategies of older underserved veterans during the COVID-19 pandemic
APA Citation:
Haltom, T. M., Tiong, J., Evans, T. L., Kamdar, N., True, G., & Kunik, M. E. (2023). Unmet needs and coping strategies of older underserved veterans during the COVID-19 pandemic. Journal of Primary Care & Community Health, 14. https://doi.org/10.1177/21501319231184368
Focus:
Veterans
Physical health
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Veteran
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Aged (65 yrs & older)
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Research & Summary
Haltom, Trenton M.; Tiong, Joyce; Evans, Tracy L.; Kamdar, Nipa; True, Gala; Kunik, Mark E.
2023
Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has had profound impacts on people with diabetes, a group with high morbidity and mortality. Factors like race, age, income, Veteran-status, and limited or interrupted resources early in the COVID-19 pandemic compounded risks for negative health outcomes. Our objective was to characterize the experiences and needs of under-resourced Veterans with type 2 diabetes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: We conducted semi-structured qualitative interviews (March through September 2021) with U.S. military Veterans with diabetes. Transcripts were analyzed using a team-based, iterative process of summarizing and coding to identify key themes. Participants included Veterans (n = 25) who were mostly men (84%), Black or African American (76%), older (mean age = 62.6), and low-income (<$20 000/year; 56%). Most participants self-reported moderate (36%) or severe (56%) diabetes-related distress. Results: Shutdowns and social distancing negatively impacted Veterans’ social, mental, and physical health. Veterans reported feeling increased isolation, depression, stress, and unmet mental health needs. Their physical health was also negatively affected. Despite pandemic-related challenges, Veterans adapted with new technological skills, appreciating their families, staying active, and relying on their religious faith. Conclusions: Veterans’ experiences during the pandemic revealed the importance of social support and access to technology. For those without social support, peer support could protect against negative health outcomes. Emergency-preparedness efforts for vulnerable patients with type 2 diabetes should include raising awareness about and increasing access to technological resources (eg, Zoom or telehealth platforms). Findings from this study will help tailor support programs for specific populations’ needs in future health crises.
7 Retention in individual trauma-focused treatment following family-based treatment among US veterans
Retention in individual trauma-focused treatment following family-based treatment among US veterans
APA Citation:
Dodge, J., Sullivan, K., Grau, P. P., Chen, C., Sripada, R., & Pfeiffer, P. N. (2023). Retention in individual trauma-focused treatment following family-based treatment among US Veterans. JAMA Network Open, 6(12), Article e2349098. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.49098
Focus:
Mental health
Programming
Trauma
Couples
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)
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Research & Summary
Dodge, Jessica; Sullivan, Kathrine; Grau, Peter P.; Chen, Charity; Sripada, Rebecca; Pfeiffer, Paul N.
2023
Despite the availability of several empirically supported trauma-focused interventions, retention in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) psychotherapy is poor. Preliminary efficacy data shows that brief, family-based interventions may improve treatment retention in a veteran’s individual PTSD treatment, although whether this occurs in routine clinical practice is not established.To characterize receipt of family therapy among veterans diagnosed with PTSD and evaluate whether participation in family therapy is associated with an increased likelihood of completing individual trauma-focused treatment.This retrospective cohort study used the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Informatics and Computing Infrastructure to extract electronic health record data of participants. All participants were US veterans diagnosed with PTSD between October 1, 2015, and December 31, 2019, who attended at least 1 individual trauma-focused treatment session. Statistical analysis was performed from May to August 2023.Receipt of any family psychotherapy and subtype of family-based psychotherapy.Minimally adequate individual trauma-focused treatment completion (ie, 8 or more sessions of trauma-focused treatment in a 6-month period).Among a total of 1 516 887 US veterans with VHA patient data included in the study, 58 653 (3.9%) received any family therapy; 334 645 (23.5%) were Black, 1 006 168 (70.5%) were White, and 86 176 (6.0%) were other race; 1 322 592 (87.2%) were male; 1 201 902 (79.9%) lived in urban areas; and the mean (SD) age at first individual psychotherapy appointment was 52.7 (15.9) years. Among the 58 653 veterans (3.9%) who received any family therapy, 36 913 (62.9%) received undefined family therapy only, 15 528 (26.5%) received trauma-informed cognitive-behavioral conjoint therapy (CBCT) only, 5210 (8.9%) received integrative behavioral couples therapy (IBCT) only, and 282 (0.5%) received behavioral family therapy (BFT) only. Compared with receiving no family therapy, the odds of completing individual PTSD treatment were 7% higher for veterans who also received CBCT (OR, 1.07 [95% CI, 1.01-1.13]) and 68% higher for veterans received undefined family therapy (OR, 1.68 [95% CI, 1.63-1.74]). However, compared with receiving no family therapy care, veterans had 26% lower odds of completing individual PTSD treatment if they were also receiving IBCT (OR, 0.74 [95% CI, 0.66-0.82]).In this cohort study of US veterans, family-based psychotherapies were found to differ substantially in their associations with individual PTSD psychotherapy retention. These findings highlight potential benefits of concurrently providing family-based therapy with individual PTSD treatment but also the need for careful clinical attention to the balance between family-based therapies and individual PTSD treatment.
8 Military family socialization: An examination of new U.S. military families in online forums
Military family socialization: An examination of new U.S. military families in online forums
APA Citation:
Wehrman, E. C. (2023). Military family socialization: An examination of new U.S. military families in online forums. Western Journal of Communication, 87(5), 727-750. https://doi.org/10.1080/10570314.2022.2146459
Focus:
Couples
Deployment
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Active Duty
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
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Research & Summary
Wehrman, Erin C.
2022
Adapting to military life can be a challenging transition for new members. Although scholarship has identified socialization processes for individuals, limited literature exists about family adaptation experiences. This study sought to understand how U.S. military family members communicated in online forums about their experiences of entering the military. Using grounded theory to analyze 1,527 pages of discussion boards, this study found that posters experienced a distinct process of socializing to military life wherein individuals navigated clashing trajectories between civilian and military expectations. Findings expand understandings of socialization and offer suggestions for helping families adjust to the armed services.
Supporting military-connected teens to thrive: A qualitative evaluation of a leadership program from the perspective of teens and adult advisors
APA Citation:
Parry, B. J., Patino, M., Garst, B. A., Bowers, E. P., Quinn, W. H., & Heffington, L. E. (2023). Supporting military-connected teens to thrive: A qualitative evaluation of a leadership program from the perspective of teens and adult advisors. Applied Developmental Science. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1080/10888691.2023.2265813
Focus:
Youth
Programming
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Active Duty
Population:
Adolescence (13 - 17 yrs)
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
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Research & Summary
Parry, Benjamin J.; Patino, Maira; Garst, Barry A.; Bowers, Edmond P.; Quinn, William H.; Heffington, Leslie E.
2023
For teens growing up in military-connected families, challenges relating to relocation, parental deployment, and reintegration add layers of stress to an already complex time of life. Out-of-school time programs provide military-connected teens opportunities to utilize existing strengths, develop new skills, and build support networks, as exemplified in the Military Teen Ambassador (MTA) program – a positive youth development program developed by the Boys and Girls Clubs of America in collaboration with the US Armed Forces. This study investigates the developmental benefits experienced by the teens serving on the MTA Steering Committee – a youth-adult collaboration designed to plan and deliver the MTA program. Interviews with teen and adult participants were analyzed through the lenses of relational developmental systems theory and a structured evaluation framework. Findings contribute insights into developmental processes and outcomes for programs targeting military-connected youth and provide applied implications that extend to broader youth and adult populations.
10 Suicide risk communication and intervention preferences for veterans and service members
Suicide risk communication and intervention preferences for veterans and service members
APA Citation:
Beatty, A. E., Richardson, J. S., Batten, S. V., Weintraub, S., Hogan, K., & Hotle, K. (2023). Suicide risk communication and intervention preferences for veterans and service members. Frontiers in Public Health, 11, Article 1215925. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2023.1215925
Focus:
Mental health
Branch of Service:
Army
Navy
Air Force
Marine Corps
Coast Guard
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Veteran
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
Beatty, Abby E.; Richardson, John S.; Batten, Sonja V.; Weintraub, Steven; Hogan, Karen; Hotle, Keith
2023
Despite the investment of public resources to fight staggering suicide rates among veterans, we know little about how veterans and service members in crisis communicate suicidal ideations, and what interventions they are willing to receive. We aim to identify communication and suicide intervention preferences of veterans and service members in times of crisis. Descriptive statistics were used to explore veterans communication of suicidal ideations. While 89.9% of participants indicated they were willing to speak to someone when having thoughts of suicide, less than 26% of participants indicated they were willing to bring up their thoughts with a crisis line or veterans organization. Rather, they indicate that family members (62.2%) and military friends (51.1%) would be their primary outreach. Logistic regression was used to determine whether or not preferred interventions varied by participant demographic characteristics. While the majority of participants indicated they were willing to allow intervention (88.6%), no one method was accepted by the majority of the population. The most accepted means of communication was to proactively contact a friend or family member about general life struggles (32.6%) or suicide-specific concerns (27.5%). Many participants were open to receiving resources (42.0%), suicide-specific mental health treatment (36.3%), and some sort of lethal means safety intervention (19.1%–26.4%). The age, marital status, and veterans status of participants significantly impacted what interventions they were willing to allow. We discuss the implications of these findings and the need for evidence-based, multimodal interventions in order to assist veterans in need.
Adult attachment and spousal reports of conflict and quality of partner interactions during a post-deployment reunion
APA Citation:
Wood, V. M., Tam-Seto, L., MacDonald, T. K., & Urban, S. (2022). Adult attachment and spousal reports of conflict and quality of partner interactions during a post-deployment reunion. Journal of Military, Veteran, and Family Health, 8(3), 72-83. https://doi.org/10.3138/jmvfh-2021-0108
Focus:
Deployment
Couples
Mental health
Branch of Service:
International Military
Military Affiliation:
Active Duty
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
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Research & Summary
Wood, Valerie M.; Tam-Seto, Linna; MacDonald, Tara K.; Urban, Samantha
2022
LAY SUMMARY The goal of this study was to understand whether spousal attachment is related to the quality of post-deployment interactions and issues of conflict reported by spouses of Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members during a post-deployment reunion. A total of 104 spouses of CAF Regular Force personnel who had recently been reunited with their partners after a deployment were surveyed. Results showed that both attachment anxiety (fear of rejection and abandonment) and attachment avoidance (discomfort with emotional intimacy and closeness) were related to lower-quality post-deployment interactions and the reported frequency of particular conflict issues. Specifically, attachment anxiety was related to more reports of unmet emotional needs, difficulties re-establishing intimacy, finances, and being less likely to describe the conflict in positive terms. The relationship between attachment anxiety and the quality of post-deployment interactions was explained by feeling as though one’s original expectations of the reunion were not met.
“We’ve been here all along:” The collective resilience of transgender and gender diverse U.S. service members
APA Citation:
Eleazer, J. R., Marchant, L., Kizewski, A., Gross, G., Warren, A., & McCubbin, L. (2023). “We’ve been here all along:” The collective resilience of transgender and gender diverse U.S. service members. Psychological Services, 20(2), 382-396. https://doi. org/10.1037/ser0000721
Focus:
Mental health
Other
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Air Force
Army
Marine Corps
Navy
Military Affiliation:
Active Duty
Guard
Reserve
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Share the article
Research & Summary
Eleazer, Jacob R.; Marchant, Landon; Kizewski, Amber; Gross, Georgina; Warren, Allison; McCubbin, Laurie
2023
Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) people in the United States face high rates of minority stressors, such as social rejection, homelessness, discrimination, and identity-based violence (James et al., 2016). Transgender and gender diverse service members are also exposed to unique military-specific stressors such as discriminatory military policies, combat stress, and military sexual trauma (Tucker et al., 2019). However, little is known about TGD troops’ experiences of resilience when navigating stress and trauma exposure during their military service. A transaffirmative participatory research design and interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) analytic method were used to explore how troops made sense of their experiences of oppression and resilience. Researchers interviewed TGD service members (N = 40) about their gender identity and military service. Superordinate themes included: (a) understanding oppression; (b) survival strategies; (c) individual stress and resilience factors; and (d) collective resilience factors. Results suggest that both intrasubjective and intersubjective factors impacted how TGD troops made sense of their experiences of oppression and resilience. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved)
13 Post-high school military enlistment and long-term well-being
Post-high school military enlistment and long-term well-being
APA Citation:
Lucier-Greer, M., O’Neal, C. W., Peterson, C., Reed-Fitzke, K., & Wickrama, K. A. S. (2023). Post-high school military enlistment and long-term well-being. Emerging Adulthood, 11(1), . https://doi.org/10.1177/21676968221131854
Focus:
Mental health
Physical health
Youth
Branch of Service:
Army
Air Force
Navy
Marine Corps
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Active Duty
Population:
Adolescence (13 - 17 yrs)
Childhood (birth - 12 yrs)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
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Research & Summary
Lucier-Greer, Mallory; O’Neal, Catherine W.; Peterson, Clairee; Reed-Fitzke, Kayla; Wickrama, K. A. S.
2023
Longitudinal data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health were used to evaluate the impact of post-high school military enlistment during emerging adulthood. Comparisons were made between matched samples of emerging adults who enlisted in the military (n = 576) and their civilian counterparts (n = 576) on well-being over a decade later. Well-being was broadly conceptualized to reflect socioeconomic well-being, physical health, mental health, and risky lifestyle behaviors. Matching maximizes confidence that findings reflect differences due to enlistment, rather than pre-existing characteristics that contribute to both enlistment rates and well-being. No consistent differences emerged between the matched samples. Service members reported some indicators of better mental health (perceived stress, anxiety), yet higher rates of post-traumatic stress disorder diagnosis, and civilians reported some indicators of better physical health. Strengths-based perspectives and models that account for the concurrent possibility that military service may positively and negatively impact well-being are needed in future research.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on army families: Household finances, familial experiences, and soldiers’ behavioral health
APA Citation:
Gomez, S. A. Q., Beymer, M. R., Jackson Santo, T., Riviere, L. A., Adler, A. B., Thomas, J. L., Millikan Bell, A., & Quartana, P. J. (2023). Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Army families: Household finances, familial experiences, and soldiers’ behavioral health. Military Psychology, 35(5), 420-430. https://doi.org/10.1080/08995605.2022.2149190
Focus:
Mental health
Parents
Children
Other
Branch of Service:
Army
Military Affiliation:
Active Duty
Reserve
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
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Research & Summary
Gomez, Stephanie A. Q.; Beymer, Matthew R.; Jackson Santo, Theresa; Riviere, Lyndon A.; Adler, Amy B.; Thomas, Jeffrey L.; Millikan Bell, Amy; Quartana, Phillip J.
2023
The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has significantly impacted employment and finances, childcare, and behavioral health across the United States. The Behavioral Health Advisory Team assessed the pandemic’s impact on the behavioral health of U.S. Army soldiers and their families. Over 20,000 soldiers at three large installation groups headquartered in the northwestern continental U.S., Republic of Korea, and Germany participated in the cross-sectional survey. Multivariable logistic regression models indicated that key demographics (gender, rank), severity of household financial impact, changes in work situation due to childcare issues, and family members’ difficulty coping (both self and spouse/partner and/or child) were independently and consistently associated with greater odds of screening positive for probable clinical depression and generalized anxiety, respectively. These findings highlight how Army families were impacted similarly by the pandemic as their civilian counterparts. Army leadership may action these findings with targeted support for soldiers and their families to ensure they are utilizing supportive services available to them, and that military services continually evolve to meet soldier and family needs during times of crisis and beyond.
Subjective emotion trajectories in couple therapy and associations with improvement in relationship satisfaction
APA Citation:
Crenshaw, A. O., Libet, J., Petty, K., Teves, J. B., Huang, A., & Mitchell, J. (2023). Subjective emotion trajectories in couple therapy and associations with improvement in relationship satisfaction. Family Process, 62(4), 1542-1554. https://doi.org/10.1111/famp.12843
Focus:
Veterans
Couples
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
Crenshaw, Alexander O.; Libet, Julian; Petty, Karen; Teves, Jenna B.; Huang, Alice; Mitchell, Jerez
2023
Existing couple therapies are generally effective for reducing romantic relationship distress and divorce, but therapy outcomes remain poor for many. Outcomes can be improved through greater understanding of session-by-session therapeutic processes, particularly in real-world treatment settings. Modern couple therapy models commonly emphasize the importance of emotional experiences as key change processes, yet few empirical studies have tested the merits of this focus. The present study addresses this limitation by examining trajectories of subjective emotions and their association with change in a key relationship outcome, relationship satisfaction, among military veterans and their partners at a VA Medical Center. Partners rated their relationship satisfaction prior to couple therapy sessions and subjective emotions immediately after sessions. Consistent with hypotheses, both hard (e.g., anger) and soft (e.g., sadness) negative emotions decreased significantly over the course of therapy. Those couples with greater decreases in hard negative, but not soft negative, emotions showed significantly more improvement in relationship satisfaction. Positive emotions did not significantly change across couples in general, but those couples whose positive emotions did increase also showed more improvement in relationship satisfaction. These results suggest change in subjective emotions may be one process underlying improvement in couple therapy and lend empirical support to the emphasis on emotion-based change processes underlying acceptance-based and emotion-focused couple therapies.
16 The role of veterans' PTSD symptoms in veteran couples' insomnia
The role of veterans' PTSD symptoms in veteran couples' insomnia
APA Citation:
Khalifian, C. E., Titone, M., Wooldridge, J. S., Knopp, K., Seibert, G., Monson, C., & Morland, L. (2023). The role of veterans’ PTSD symptoms in veteran couples’ insomnia. Family Process, 62(4), 1725-1739. https://doi.org/10.1111/famp.12835
Focus:
Couples
Mental health
Physical health
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)
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Research & Summary
Khalifian, Chandra E.; Titone, Madison; Wooldridge, Jennalee S.; Knopp, Kayla; Seibert, Gregory; Monson, Candice; Morland, Leslie
2023
Insomnia contributes to individual mental and physical health and relationship well-being. Veterans' PTSD symptoms are associated with their own insomnia. However, research has not explored whether and how veterans' PTSD symptoms are associated with their partners' insomnia. The present study examined the association between veterans' PTSD symptom severity and veterans' and partners' insomnia. Veterans (n = 192) and their partners (n = 192; total N = 384) completed baseline assessments in a PTSD treatment study for veterans with PTSD and their partners. Path analysis was used to examine the relation between veterans' PTSD symptom severity, as measured by the PTSD symptom checklist-5 (PCL-5) and veterans' and partners' insomnia, as measured by the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI). Veterans' full-scale PCL-5 was positively related to veterans' and partners' insomnia. For veterans, intrusion and arousal symptoms were positively related to their own insomnia severity, while veterans' negative alterations in cognition and mood were associated with partners' insomnia severity. In exploratory analyses, partners' depressive symptoms fully mediated the relation between veterans' negative cognitions and mood and partners' insomnia. PTSD symptoms impact both veterans' and partners' insomnia. However, different PTSD symptom clusters were related to insomnia for each partner, and the link for partners was explained by their own depression symptoms. PTSD, insomnia, and integrated treatments should consider strategies for including partners in treatment to address these interconnected problems.
An examination of relationship satisfaction as a predictor of outcomes of brief couple therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder
APA Citation:
Sippel, L. M., Knopp, K. C., Wachsman, T., Khalifian, C. E., Glynn, S. M., & Morland, L. A. (2023). An examination of relationship satisfaction as a predictor of outcomes of brief couple therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 36(6), 1115–1125. https://doi.org/10.1002/jts.22984
Focus:
Veterans
Couples
Programming
Mental health
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)
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Research & Summary
Sippel, Lauren M.; Knopp, Kayla C.; Wachsman, Tamara; Khalifian, Chandra E.; Glynn, Shirley M.; Morland, Leslie A.
2023
The pretreatment quality of intimate relationships can promote or interfere with couple therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) treatment response. We tested whether baseline relationship satisfaction predicted clinical and process outcomes in two dyadic treatments for PTSD. Using data from a randomized trial comparing brief cognitive behavioral conjoint therapy (bCBCT) for PTSD to PTSD family education (PFE) among 137 military veterans and their partners (N = 274, Mage = 42.3 years, 46.7% White, 81.0% male veteran partner), we examined whether baseline relationship satisfaction (Couples Satisfaction Index; CSI-32) predicted change in PTSD symptom severity (Clinician Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5; CAPS-5), psychosocial functioning (Brief Inventory of Psychosocial Functioning; B-IPF), and relationship satisfaction at posttreatment and 6-month follow-up. We also explored associations with process outcomes (working alliance, treatment satisfaction, dropout). In both treatment conditions, neither partner's baseline CSI-32 score moderated change in veteran CAPS-5 or B-IPF score or any process variable. However, baseline CSI-32 scores moderated both partners’ CSI-32 score change during bCBCT and PFE; participants who scored in the distressed range at baseline (n = 123) experienced significant improvements in relationship satisfaction, β = .199, whereas there was no change among those in the nondistressed range at baseline (n = 151), β = .025. Results suggest bCBCT and PFE are effective in improving PTSD symptoms and psychosocial functioning regardless of whether a couple is experiencing clinically significant relationship distress; further, these treatments improve relationship satisfaction for the most distressed individuals.
18 Support for complicated grief in military primary care: Associations, challenges, and opportunities
Support for complicated grief in military primary care: Associations, challenges, and opportunities
APA Citation:
Gibson, L. P. (2023). Support for complicated grief in military primary care: Associations, challenges, and opportunities. Military Medicine, usad410. https://doi.org/10.1093/milmed/usad410
Focus:
Mental health
Programming
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Active Duty
Veteran
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Aged (65 yrs & older)
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Research & Summary
Gibson, Lauren P
2023
This study examined whether service members and their families engage in communication with their primary care managers (PCMs) regarding their losses and to what extent PCMs provide counseling or referrals for grief-related concerns. Additionally, the study explored the potential associations between ethnicity, age, military status (dependent, service member, or veteran), gender, patients’ disclosure of loss to their PCM, receipt of referrals for grief-related services, and treatment seeking.A survey was administered to 161 patients enrolled in primary care at William Beaumont Army Medical Center, with 138 reporting a significant loss. Bereaved respondents completed the Inventory of Complicated Grief and the Prolonged Grief Disorder-13 Revised scale (PG-13). Respondents were also asked questions related to their loss and their interactions with their PCM related to the loss.One hundred twenty-five bereaved respondents completed the measures, 13 had missing information related to PCM interactions. Twenty-nine percent (n = 36) of the 112 respondents reported a significant loss to their PCM. These respondents exhibited significantly higher symptom severity, as indicated by their total mean scores on the Inventory of Complicated Grief and the PG13. Seventeen percent (n = 6) of these respondents reported receiving counseling on topics related to grief or a referral for grief care from their PCM. A moderate relationship was identified between military status and communication with PCM, such that current service members were least likely to report, followed by veterans, then dependents. A moderate relationship was also found between ethnicity and treatment seeking.The study’s findings have implications for primary care and highlight opportunities for improved outcomes, including the development of appropriate assessment protocols, interventions, and educational initiatives to address grief-related concerns within the military healthcare system. Future research should further investigate the specific needs and preferences of military personnel and their families to enhance the delivery of targeted and effective healthcare services.
Assessing the link between Bible reading and flourishing among military families: Preliminary findings
APA Citation:
Bradshaw, M., Jang, S. J., & Johnson, B. R. (2023). Assessing the link between Bible reading and flourishing among military families: Preliminary findings. Armed Forces & Society. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1177/0095327X231211554
Focus:
Mental health
Other
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Active Duty
Veteran
Population:
Childhood (birth - 12 yrs)
Adolescence (13 - 17 yrs)
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
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Research & Summary
Bradshaw, Matt; Jang, Sung Joon; Johnson, Byron R.
2023
This study examines whether participating in a Bible reading program for military families (called “Hero Squad”) is positively related to overall human flourishing among children, family units, and parents/caregivers. Previous research shows salutary associations between multiple dimensions of religiosity (including reading sacred texts) and different aspects of flourishing (e.g., physical health, psychological well-being, character and virtue, social connections and support), so it was hypothesized that program participation would promote flourishing over time. Two waves of survey data were collected on a sample of 175 U.S. military families in 2021 and 2022, and differences between pretest and posttest surveys were analyzed. As hypothesized, improvements in indicators of flourishing were observed over time. These findings contribute to published work on religious participation by showing that Bible reading may promote overall mental, physical, and social well-being. Implications and limitations of these preliminary findings are discussed.
Predicting marital health from adverse childhood experiences among United States Air Force active-duty personnel
APA Citation:
Cigrang, J., Balderrama-Durbin, C., Snyder, D. K., Parsons, A. M., Lorko, K., Gupta, A., Smith Slep, A. M., Heyman, R. E., Mitnick, D. M., Wijdenes, K. L., & Yahle, C. (2023). Predicting marital health from adverse childhood experiences among United States air force active-duty personnel. Couple and Family Psychology: Research and Practice, 12(4), 218–232. https://doi.org/10.1037/cfp0000207
Focus:
Couples
Trauma
Branch of Service:
Air Force
Military Affiliation:
Active Duty
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
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Research & Summary
Cigrang, Jeff; Balderrama-Durbin, Christina; Snyder, Douglas K.; Parsons, Aleja M.; Lorko, Kelsey; Gupta, Avantika; Smith Slep, Amy M.; Heyman, Richard E.; Mitnick, Danielle M.; Wijdenes, Kati L.; Yahle, Courtney
2023
Marital dysfunction in military samples demands special scrutiny because of its concurrent and prospective linkages with a broad spectrum of mental and physical health disorders, as well as its demonstrated adverse impact on military readiness. Although previous research has shown higher risk for marital distress and divorce among female service members (SMs), particularly at the enlisted ranks, contributing factors to this elevated risk remain largely undetermined. The present study examined the antecedent contributing influence of exposure to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on current marital health in a sample of 373 early-career active-duty Airmen, as well as the potential moderating effect of sex on the magnitude of adverse impact. Results indicated higher prevalence of ACEs for this military sample compared with a community sample and higher prevalence of ACEs for female SMs compared with their male counterparts. Moreover, findings revealed the relatively greater adverse impact of childhood abuse or neglect for female SMs in increasing their likelihood of both IPV perpetration and victimization. Overall, these findings indicate the importance of screening for both antecedent and concurrent indicators of marital health in military settings and developing brief intervention protocols targeting relationship distress and its comorbid conditions in this population. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved)
1 MILITARY FAMILY READINESS: AN OVERVIEW
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2 SPOUSE EDUCATION AND CAREER OPPORTUNITIES: WHAT IS SECO?
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3 PERSPECTIVES OF SERVICE AMONG WOMEN SERVICE MEMBERS AND VETERANS
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4 THE INSIDE SCOOP ON SPOUSAL EMPLOYMENT
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