Talk to the Veterans Crisis Line now
U.S. flag
An official website of the United States government

VA Health Systems Research

Go to the VA ORD website
Go to the QUERI website

HSR Citation Abstract

Search | Search by Center | Search by Source | Keywords in Title

OEF/OIF Servicewomen Deployed to Combat Regions: The Impact of Sexual Assault in Military on Post-Deployment Readjustment and Social Support

Sadler AG, Mengeling M, Torner J, Cook BL, Booth BM. OEF/OIF Servicewomen Deployed to Combat Regions: The Impact of Sexual Assault in Military on Post-Deployment Readjustment and Social Support. Paper presented at: VA HSR&D / QUERI National Meeting; 2015 Jul 9; Philadelphia, PA.




Abstract:

Objectives: Social support is a key determinant of post-traumatic resiliency. Our study examined the post-deployment readjustment and social support of OEF/OIF servicewomen deployed to Iraq/Afghanistan (I/A) and/or other combat locations, and determined the association of sexual assault in military (SAIM) with this readjustment/social support. Methods: This cross-sectional retrospective study used a computer-assisted telephone interview to assess deployment experiences, socio-demographics, post-deployment readjustment and current social support. A community sample of a Mid-western cohort of 862 OEF/OIF active component (AC) 50% and Reserve/National Guard (RNG) 50% servicewomen returning from deployment within the preceding 36 months participated. Results: Most participants (80%) were deployed to I/A. One-fifth (20%) experienced SAIM during their service. A third (32%) acknowledged they had post-deployment problems that they couldn't discuss with family or friends. However, most (96%) reported that there were people they could talk with about their deployment if they chose to. While 5% indicated they experienced major financial problems post-deployment, such as bankruptcy, most (92%) had friends or relatives who would lend them money if needed. Most (95%) agreed that if they are ill, family or friends will help until they are well. After deployment, 18% reported divorce, leaving or being left by a significant other. Post-deployment readjustment and support were substantially different for servicewomen experiencing SAIM relative to non-assaulted peers. Women with SAIM were more likely to indicate they had post-deployment problems they couldn't discuss (27% vs. 16%, p < .0001), that they didn't have people they could talk with about problems (41% vs 19%, P < .0001), to have experienced post-deployment financial problems (42% vs 18%, P < .0001) but not be as likely to have someone to help them financially (29% vs 19%, P = .002); and to report a divorce or loss of a significant relationship (31% vs. 17%, p < .0001). Implications: While post-deployment readjustment issues were acknowledged, most participants reported positive readjustment and social support. Conversely, servicewomen with SAIM acknowledged significantly poorer readjustment and support across all domains. Impacts: OEF/OIF servicewomen with SAIM at any time in their military career report poorer social support and post-deployment readjustment. Interventions to address the social isolation, readjustment and resiliency of this vulnerable population are needed.





Questions about the HSR website? Email the Web Team

Any health information on this website is strictly for informational purposes and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any condition.