Resource management and post-traumatic stress disorder in peacekeepers: A qualitative exploratory study

The high variability in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) prevalence among peacekeepers facing similar trauma underscores that factors beyond exposure determine outcomes. Based on Conservation of Resources (COR) theory, this qualitative study identified the primary risk and protective factors shared by peacekeepers and, as a secondary objective, conducted a preliminary, hypothesis-generating comparison between those with and without probable PTSD. Semi-structured interviews with 32 Portuguese peacekeepers from various missions were transcribed and thematically analyzed using NVivo. The PCL-5 was administered post-interview to categorize participants for a subsequent exploratory analysis. A primary finding was the unanimous consensus within this sample across different missions and both groups on all major thematic domains of risk and protective factors. Building on this consensus, an exploratory, hypotheses-generating analysis suggested a potential nuance: while both groups value the same resources, their narratives hinted at potential differences in resource management strategies, with the group without probable PTSD more frequently describing proactive approaches. The study empirically establishes a shared understanding of the "resource caravan" among peacekeepers. The findings suggest that vulnerability to PTSD may stem not from ignorance of resources, but potentially from failures in their dynamic management. Collectively, these results offer a validated framework for support strategies and valuable hypotheses for future research.