Psychosocial functioning in veterans with combat-related PTSD: An evolutionary concept analysis

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Psychology
• Nursing

Background:

• Combat veterans face higher risks of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and psychosocial impairment.
• A strong association exists between PTSD and impaired psychosocial functioning.
• Psychosocial functioning is an ambiguous term in PTSD literature.

Purpose of the Study:

• To clarify the concept of psychosocial functioning in veterans with combat-related PTSD.
• To conduct an evolutionary concept analysis of psychosocial functioning.

Main Methods:

• Utilized Rodgers' evolutionary concept analysis method.
• Performed a literature search across CINAHL and SCOPUS databases.
• Screened twenty articles meeting established criteria.

Main Results:

• Identified key attributes: psychosocial functioning environment/domain, social support, and treatment engagement.
• Recognized combat exposure and PTSD symptoms as antecedents.
• Noted consequences including decreased intimacy, work function, parenting satisfaction, and educational productivity.

Conclusions:

• Psychosocial functioning is critical for US combat veterans with PTSD.
• The concept requires specific consideration in healthcare treatment planning.