Military spouses’ perceptions of suicide in the military spouse community
Research Report:
Research SummaryAPA Citation:
Cole, R. F., Cowan, R. G., Dunn, H., & Lincoln, T. (2021). Military spouses’ perceptions of suicide in the military spouse community. The Professional Counselor, 11(2), 203-217. https://doi.org/10.15241/rfc.11.2.203
Abstract Created by REACH:
This study used a sample of 10 military-affiliated civilian spouses to explore their thoughts and feelings related to suicide among military-affiliated civilian spouses. These civilian spouses were married to active-duty Service members and completed two interviews. Overall, 6 themes were identified, highlighting the potential risk factors, protective factors, and preventative services related to the suicide of military-affiliated civilian spouses.
Focus:
Other
Mental health
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Air Force
Army
Navy
Military Affiliation:
Active Duty
Subject Affiliation:
Spouse of service member or veteran
Population:
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Methodology:
Qualitative Study
Cross sectional study
Authors:
Cole, R. F., Cowan, R. G., Dunn, H., Lincoln, T.
Abstract:
Newly released data from the U.S. Department of Defense shows military spouse suicide to be an imminent concern for the U.S. military. Currently, there is an absence of research in the counseling profession related to suicide prevention and intervention for this population. Therefore, this qualitative phenomenological study explored the perceptions of military spouses regarding suicide within their community. Ten military spouses were interviewed twice and were asked to provide written responses to follow-up questions. Six main themes emerged: (a) loss of control, (b) loss of identity, (c) fear of seeking mental health services, (d) difficulty accessing mental health services, (e) the military spouse community as a protective factor, and (f) desire for better communication about available mental health resources. Implications for practicing counselors and military leadership in helping to prevent military spouse suicide as well as recommendations for future research regarding ways to support military spouse mental health and prevent suicide in this community are included.
Publication Type:
Article
REACH Publication
Author Affiliation:
Uniformed Services University, RFC
Walden University, RGC
Arkansas State University, HD
Arkansas State University, TL
Keywords:
suicide, military spouse
REACH Publication Type:
Research Summary
Sponsors:
Arkansas State University
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