Evaluation of Psychological Hardiness and Coping Style as Risk/Resilience Factors for Health Risk Behaviour
Abstract
Use of alcohol and drugs, is a growing problem among military personnel, which brings substantial health risks and potential costs for the organization (Gackstetter et al., 2008; Jacobson et al, 2008; Seal et al., 2007). Unfortunately, current screening approaches are not very sensitive, since military workers tend to under-report health risk behavior and substance abuse problems on direct measures (Hoge et al., 2006). More effective screening approaches are needed, as well as better treatment programs (Bray et al., 2005). This study will evaluate the Dispositional Resilience Scale-15 (DRS-15Bartone, 1995; Hystad et al, 2009), a short measure of psychological hardiness-resilience, as a screening tool to identify defense workers who may be at risk for alcohol and drug problems. It is known that people who are chronically low in hardiness-resilience also tend to rely on negative, avoidance coping strategies in responding to stress (Bartone 2005; 2006, Funk 1992). Thus, low hardiness levels in people could serve as a risk marker for stress-related alcohol and substance abuse. This study assesses the association of psychological hardiness and avoidance coping style with alcohol use patterns in a large national sample of Norwegian military defense personnel. Results show that after controlling for age and sex, low psychological hardiness and high avoidance coping are significant predictors of alcohol use and abuse. Also, the challenge facet of hardiness predicts risk of alcohol abuse among respondents with recent deployment experience, and this effect is greater for those with more difficult deployment experiences. Older defense workers are also at higher risk, which suggests cumulative occupational stress may take a toll on defense workers. This research points the way to new approaches for early identification of military workers at risk for stress-related substance abuse, and more effective prevention efforts.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA582921
Entities
People
- Jarle Eid
- John I. Brevik
- Paul T. Bartone
- Sigurd W. Hystad
Organizations
- National Defense University