The experiences of women whose military partners have been diagnosed with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
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Date
2016
Authors
Collins, Colleen
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Abstract
This qualitative study explores the experiences of women whose military partners have been diagnosed with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. I sought to understand the influences that PTSD had on family and couple relationships and whether resiliency was a factor in the experiences of the women. Six women were interviewed for this qualitative study. From these interviews, 10 themes were developed: 1. Women’s recognition of partner’s PTSD symptoms was not immediate; 2. Women blamed themselves for their partner’s changed behaviour; 3. PTSD caused significant stress to the couple relationship; 4. PTSD affected the family unit; 5. Women bore the burden and took on more responsibility; 6. Women forsake their own needs (personal sacrifice); 7. Women experienced intense negative emotions; 8. Women’s health and well-being was negatively impacted by partners’ PTSD; 9. Women gained new insights and no longer considered themselves responsible for their partner’s illness; 10. Women demonstrated resilience and coping.
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Keywords
PTSD, Military, Women, Experiences, Partners