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Oil wives and intermittent husbands
The British Journal of Psychiatry : the Journal of Mental Science
|November 1, 1985
Summary
Wives of offshore oil workers experience mood and behavioral changes due to frequent partings. A small percentage develop Intermittent Husband Syndrome, highlighting a need for better support services for these families.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Psychology
- Sociology
Background:
- The Aberdeen area has a significant population of oil industry workers.
- The lifestyle of offshore oil workers involves frequent, extended periods away from home.
- The impact of this lifestyle on spouses has not been extensively studied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the general health, mood, and behavioral changes in wives of offshore and onshore oil workers.
- To identify potential psychological syndromes associated with the offshore work pattern.
- To assess the need for preventive and support services for these families.
Main Methods:
- A comparative investigation was conducted in the Aberdeen area.
- Participants included wives of both offshore and onshore oil workers.
- Health, mood, and behavioral measures were assessed.
Main Results:
- No significant differences in general health were found between the two groups.
- 'Offshore wives' reported more mood and behavioral changes linked to recurring separations and reunions.
- Approximately 10% of offshore wives exhibited pronounced reactions, termed Intermittent Husband Syndrome or 'caseness'.
Conclusions:
- The pattern of frequent partings and reunions associated with offshore oil work can negatively impact spouses' mental well-being.
- While many adapt, a notable minority experience significant distress, necessitating specialized support.
- There is a clear need for enhanced preventive strategies and support services for families of offshore oil workers.