Anxiety among Israeli soldiers during the Gulf War

The impact of stress was investigated among Israeli soldiers during the Gulf War. The study included 40 healthy young adults in active service. Their scores on the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale were evaluated during the first week of the war. Our subjects were divided into two equal sub-groups (N=20); combatants and auxiliary personnel. Higher levels of anxiety were found among the combatants. Factor analysis revealed three differing factors: arousal symptoms, numbing and distraction. We discuss the possible explanations for these differences.