The Impact of Reported Direct and Indirect Killing on Mental Health Symptoms in Iraq War Veterans

Abstract

This study examined the mental health impact of reported direct and indirect killing among 2,797 U.S. soldiers returning from Operation Iraqi Freedom. Data were collected as part of a postdeployment screening program at a large Army medical facility. Overall, 40% of soldiers reported killing or being responsible for killing during their deployment. Even after controlling for combat exposure, killing was a significant predictor of posttraumatic disorder (PTSD) symptoms, alcohol abuse, anger, and relationship problems. Military personnel returning from modern deployments are at risk of adverse mental health conditions and related psychosocial functioning related to killing in war. Mental health assessment and treatment should address reactions to killing to optimize readjustment following deployment.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Feb 01, 2010
Accession Number
ADA514756

Entities

People

  • Barbara A. Lucenko
  • Brett T Litz
  • Charles R. Marmar
  • Gregory A. Gahm
  • Karen H. Seal
  • Mark A. Reger
  • Sara J. Knight
  • Shira Maguen

Organizations

  • Veterans Administration Medical Center

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Brain Injuries
  • Combat Operations
  • Department Of Veterans Affairs
  • Diseases And Disorders
  • Education
  • Health
  • Health Care
  • Health Services
  • Iraqi-War
  • Medical Personnel
  • Mental Disorders
  • Mental Health
  • Military Personnel
  • Minority Groups
  • Regression Analysis
  • War
  • Warfare

Fields of Study

  • Psychology

Readers

  • Immunology
  • Mental Health of Military Veterans with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Risk Factors, Prevalence, Symptoms, and Treatment.