Reintegration After Deployment: Supporting Citizen Warriors and Their Families
Abstract
Since 2001, the National Guard and Reserve have been utilized at unprecedented levels to fill key roles in overseas operations, with more than 800,000 reserve component members called to active duty since 9/11. As a result of these increased demands, guard personnel and reservists have experienced more overseas deployments -- often in combat situations that extend for long periods or occur in rapid succession. In many cases, this shift in operational tempo places a strain on families, especially as citizen warriors reintegrate back into their civilian lives and return to their civilian jobs after deployment. A smooth reintegration is critical not only for family well-being, but also for military readiness. Despite reintegration's importance, few studies have examined what guard and reserve families actually experience during this time. Recent research by the RAND Corporation aimed to fill that gap with one of the most comprehensive examinations to date of the reintegration experiences of reserve component members and their families. Key findings: (1) One size does not fit all families -- There is no "recipe" for reintegration after deployment, and problems experienced during reintegration vary across families and over time; (2) Families that report a smooth readjustment are more likely to have favorable views toward continued service in the National Guard or Reserve; (3) Although family initiative is central to successful reintegration, DoD can play a role by emphasizing early preparation and facilitating good communication; and (4) Resource providers outside DoD abound, but a lack of coordination and other barriers may prevent families from making the most of this vast "web of support."
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA584956
Entities
Organizations
- RAND Corporation