Personality disorders in a Swedish peacekeeping unit

Area of Science:

• Military psychology
• Psychiatry
• Occupational health

Background:

• Limited research exists on personality disorder incidence and impact among military peacekeepers.
• Existing studies often assess personality traits post-deployment, missing longitudinal data.
• Understanding these disorders is crucial for peacekeeping mission effectiveness and personnel well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To longitudinally investigate the prevalence and consequences of personality disorders in military peacekeepers.
• To assess personality disorders before, during, and after a peacekeeping mission.
• To examine the relationship between personality disorders, mental health, and traumatic experiences.

Main Methods:

• A longitudinal study surveyed 516 Swedish peacekeepers deployed to Bosnia (March-October 1996).
• Screening occurred at four time points: pre-deployment, immediately post-deployment, 6 months post-deployment, and 1 year post-deployment.
• The DSM-IV and ICD-10 Personality Questionnaire (DIP-Q) was used for screening.

Main Results:

• The prevalence of personality disorders was comparable to, or slightly lower than, that of the general population.
• Personality disorders correlated with diminished general mental health and reported traumatic experiences.
• Personality disorders appeared to contribute to poorer mental health outcomes one year after mission completion.

Conclusions:

• Personality disorders do not appear to be more prevalent in peacekeepers than the general population.
• Personality disorders are associated with negative mental health outcomes and trauma exposure in peacekeepers.
• Findings suggest implications for future selection and support strategies for military personnel in peacekeeping roles.