Family Vulnerability: The Impact of Prolonged Separation (From Who Gets PTSD? Issues of Posttraumatic Stress Vulnerability, P 144-161, 2006, John M. Violanti and Douglas Paton, eds. -- See NCJ-213445)

• NCJ Number: 213455
• Author(s): Douglas Paton; Kate Meyer
• Date Published: 2006
• Length: 18 pages
• Sale Source: Charles C. Thomas
• Publication Format: Book Chapter
• Publication Type: Literature Review
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This chapter identifies seven stages in experiencing family separation during prolonged periods of duty-related deployment of military and other service personnel, and it suggests how the negative impacts can be addressed.

Abstract

The first two stages occur during predeployment. One stage involves the anticipation of separation and encompasses 4 to 6 weeks before deployment. This stage can involve denial, crying, irritability, depression, and conflict in relations. The second stage is detachment and withdrawal, which occurs a few days before deployment. Responses include withdrawal, sexual tension, arguments, despair, and hopelessness. Support from family and friends are important coping resources during these two stages of predeployment. Stages three through five occur during deployment. The stage of emotional disorganization encompasses the first 6 weeks of deployment. Responses include psychological and behavioral adjustment, worry, depression, anger, guilt, and disorientation. The next stage is recovery and stabilization, which occurs at the mid-point of deployment. It involves stabilized new routines and support sources, increased independence, but some anxiety and depression. The fifth stage is the anticipation of homecoming, which occurs 6 weeks prior to the return. This stage can elicit excitement, joy, apprehension, and tension. Families with effective social support systems report better overall functioning during these stages during deployment. The last two stages occur in the postdeployment period. One stage involves the renegotiation of relationship contract, which occurs during 6 weeks after the return. It can involve a loss of independence, the need to renegotiate roles inside and outside the family, and reintegration into the family. The final stage is reintegration, which occurs 6 to 12 weeks after the return. This stage involves re-establishing trust, stabilizing roles and routines, and marital closeness. Support groups are helpful in promoting constructive coping, an understanding of the dynamics of reintegration, and opportunities to express and reflect upon feelings. 44 references