Assessment of military population-based psychological resilience programs
Brenda J Morgan1, Sandra C Garmon Bibb
1Graduate School of Nursing, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, 4301 Jones Bridge Road, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA.
Military Medicine
|October 13, 2011
Summary
Active duty service members need better psychological resilience programs. Current Department of Defense (DoD) initiatives lack outcome data, highlighting a need for evidence-based interventions to improve military readiness and force health.
Area of Science:
- Military Psychology
- Trauma Adaptation
- Psychological Resilience
Background:
- Active duty service members (ADSMs) face challenges adapting to traumatic stressors, impacting force health.
- Enhancing psychological resilience in ADSMs is a priority for the Department of Defense (DoD).
- There is an increasing number of military programs aimed at improving psychological resilience.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the comprehensiveness of current psychological resilience-building programs for ADSMs.
- To identify gaps in existing resilience programs and published literature.
Main Methods:
- A modified six-step, population-based needs assessment was employed.
- Evaluation of resilience programs designed for the ADSM population.
Main Results:
- A significant gap exists in published literature concerning the outcomes of psychological resilience programs for ADSMs.
- Current programs may not be fully comprehensive in addressing the psychological needs of ADSMs.
Conclusions:
- DoD leaders should prioritize predictive research to assess program effectiveness outcomes.
- Future resilience programs should incorporate preventive, evidence-based interventions, such as positive emotion interventions.
- Enhancing psychological resilience is crucial for military readiness and the well-being of service members.
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