Psychological Effects on UAV Operators and Proposed Mitigation Strategies to Combat PTSD
Abstract
Although unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operators avoid exposure to many physical risks, they may be susceptible to the same psychological threats as conventional aircraft pilots in the field. This thesis analyzes case studies involving experiences of UAV operators suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with the intent to increase understanding of the psychological threats associated with piloting unmanned systems. Mitigation strategies found to combat PTSD include workload restructure, strategic counseling, and cortisol testing and therapy. Psychological distress that leads to PTSD can be prevented when conditions are structured with containment, intervention, and prevention in mind. Following the Government Accountability Office recommendations and applying scientific treatments and therapies, the U.S. Armed Forces has a chance to gain traction against its operator shortages without causing psychological distress to its personnel.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2021
- Accession Number
- AD1150884
Entities
People
- Jamal M. Campbell
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School