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PTSD and conflict behavior between veterans and their intimate partners
Mark W Miller1, Erika J Wolf, Annemarie F Reardon
1National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System & Boston University School of Medicine, MA 02130, United States. mark.miller5@va.gov
Journal of Anxiety Disorders
|March 26, 2013
Summary
Veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and their partners displayed more hostility and less affection during conflict discussions. Addressing PTSD in both partners is crucial for relationship health.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Psychiatry
- Sociology
Background:
- Trauma history and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) significantly impact interpersonal relationships.
- Veteran couples face unique challenges due to combat-related trauma and its psychological sequelae.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the behavioral dynamics between veterans with PTSD and their intimate partners during conflict.
- To identify how PTSD symptoms and trauma history influence interaction patterns within these couples.
Main Methods:
- Observational study of 287 veteran couples (N=574) during conflict discussions.
- Behavioral coding using the Rapid Marital Interaction Coding System (Heyman, 2004).
- Dyadic structural equation modeling to analyze interaction patterns.
Main Results:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was linked to increased hostility and psychological abuse in both veterans and partners.
- Fewer expressions of acceptance and humor were observed in couples where at least one partner had PTSD.
- Interaction deficits were present in both the veteran and the partner, suggesting a dyadic impact.
Conclusions:
- PTSD is associated with significant social and emotional deficits affecting couple interactions.
- Therapeutic interventions for veteran couples should address the trauma history and PTSD symptoms of both individuals.
- Understanding the dyadic impact of PTSD is essential for effective relationship counseling for veterans.
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