Prospective Assessment of Neurocognition in Future Gulf-Deployed and Gulf-Nondeployed Military Personnel: A Pilot Study
Abstract
To examine neuropsychological outcomes associated with OIF deployment. Secondary objectives include identification of risk and resiliency factors for adverse neuropsychological outcomes. Prospective cohort design in which deploying Army soldiers are assessed once prior to deployment and twice after redeployment. A comparison group of soldiers is assessed before and after a period of garrison duty. Methods include administration of performance-based neuropsychological measures and self-report surveys. Time 1, Time 2, and Time 3 data collection are completed. Analyses of Time 3 data are on-going. Major findings: OIF deployment was associated with neuropsychological abnormalities, including disadvantaged memory and attentional performance, increased emotional distress, and advantaged simple reaction time. Deployment was also associated with increased risk of PTSD, particularly among soldiers reporting greater stress exposures and those activated from NG status. Unit cohesion buffers the adverse effects of early life events on PTSD prior to deployment.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA478433
Entities
People
- Jennifer J. Vasterling
- Susan P. Proctor