A qualitative descriptive study: Veteran reintegration and their experiences with social support networks
APA Citation:
Evans, A. S. (2021). A qualitative descriptive study: Veteran reintegration and their experiences with social support networks [Doctoral dissertation, Grand Canyon University]. ProQuest. https://www.proquest.com/docview/2610413740?pq-origsite=gscholar&fromopenview=true
Focus:
Veterans
Mental health
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Veteran
Subject Affiliation:
Veteran
Population:
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Methodology:
Qualitative Study
Authors:
Evans, Alana S., Nancy Walker
Abstract:
The increase in the number of enlisted veterans transitioning from active duty to the civilian world has drawn attention to a need for research regarding the transition process and the use of social support networks to examine how separated service members experience the transition from their perspective. This qualitative descriptive study explored how U.S. military veterans described their experiences with social support networks and how they provided support as they transitioned from military to civilian life. Sixteen participants from three military branches in two cities, located in Texas, participated in this study to better understand the complexities of reintegrating into civilian life with the use of social support networks. The conceptual framework for this study was Schlossberg’s Transition Theory with the 4S Model. The four data sources included open-ended questionnaires with embedded demographic questions, semi-structured interviews, and two focus groups. Braun and Clarke’s six steps of thematic analysis were used to analyze the data. The findings revealed how veterans conceptualized their transition experience, positive/negative views of the military transition resources, and the effectiveness or ineffectiveness of social support networks. The three themes that emerged from this study were (1) Rationale for Joining the Military and Subsequent Re-entry Following Transition Challenges; (2) Experiences Navigating the Transition Process and Areas of Need; and (3) Social Support and Military Network Services Necessary for the Transition Process.
Publisher/Sponsoring Organization:
Grand Canyon University
Publication Type:
Dissertations & Theses
Keywords:
military-to-civilian, reintegration, social support
Location:
Ann Arbor