Post-traumatic Stress Disorder in Veterans: A Concept Analysis
Tormechi Chambliss1, Jung-Lung Hsu2, Mei-Lan Chen1
1School of Nursing, Byrdine F. Lewis College of Nursing and Health Professions, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA.
Behavioral Sciences (Basel, Switzerland)
|June 26, 2024
Summary
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in veterans is characterized by intrusive memories, isolation, and negative thoughts. Understanding these core PTSD attributes is crucial for developing effective mental health interventions for military personnel.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Military Medicine
- Mental Health
Background:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) significantly affects veterans' quality of life, functioning, and overall well-being.
- The military environment increases the risk of traumatic events, making PTSD a prevalent concern in the veteran population.
- A clear conceptualization of PTSD in veterans is essential for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a concept analysis of PTSD in the veteran population.
- To identify the defining attributes, model case, antecedents, consequences, and empirical referents of PTSD among veterans.
- To enhance the understanding of PTSD to improve mental health support for veterans.
Main Methods:
- Utilized Walker and Avant's established method for concept analysis.
- Systematically analyzed literature and data related to PTSD in veterans.
- Focused on identifying core characteristics and contextual factors of PTSD.
Main Results:
- Identified three key attributes of PTSD: intrusive memories of traumatic events, feelings of isolation and estrangement, and negative cognitions.
- Conceptualized PTSD as a symptom cluster stemming from severe traumatic experiences.
- Highlighted the military environment's role in predisposing veterans to trauma.
Conclusions:
- A refined understanding of PTSD attributes in veterans is established.
- The findings provide a foundation for developing more effective PTSD interventions for veterans.
- Enhanced conceptualization can improve mental health outcomes and support for the veteran community.
Keywords:
DSM-5PTSDantecedentsconcept analysisdefining attributesempirical referentspost-traumatic stress disordertraumaveteransMore Related Videos
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