Combat Stress: Lessons Learned from Recent Operational Experiences. Part A.
Abstract
Much has been written about combat stress, and the possible levels of casualties that such stress may produce. One of the most effective ways of reducing combat stress is to maintain a high level of cohesion and morale. Commanders need ways to assess the status of their units in these areas. There have been a variety of programs developed to manage stress; their application to the military setting is discussed. The objectives of this study were: (1) Conduct a literature search to determine the relevant reports and articles on stress in light of recent operational experiences. (2) Conduct a workshop to assess those lessons learned (3) Consult with units engaged in combat training missions. (4) Provide the AMEDD with information which would permit more effective training and organization for the prevention and treatment of operational stress casualties. A list of references on operational stress was developed. The Fourth Workshop on Combat Stress was conducted to identify the lessons learned. There are a number of important lessons which can be derived from the descriptions of the operational stresses in the recent operational experiences described in detail in this report. Consultations with Forts Carson and Hood revealed that the survey instruments used in these studies have acceptable psychometric properties. Actions appropriate to the pre-development, deployment, and post-deployment phases of operations are described. Keywords: Stress disorders, post-traumatic; Falklands; Granada; Sinai.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1985
- Accession Number
- ADA159815
Entities
People
- A. D. Mangelsdorff
- D. E. O'brien
- J. M. King