By Kimberly Quinn & Kacy Mixon, M.S., LMFT
Our previous post focused on the differences between Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Post-traumatic Stress Symptoms (PTSS) and the effects on military couples. A recent study of 66 US Army couples found resiliency greatly contributed to positive relationship functioning despite elevated symptoms of post-traumatic stress [1].
Resilience is defined as the ability to bounce back despite experiencing adverse circumstances [2].
Couple and family therapy is commonly encouraged for military families experiencing adverse effects of PTSS and PTSD. Military families often become saturated in stressors connected to deployment, reintegration, and trauma-related issues. Thus, therapy approaches rooted in strength-based intervention strategies are particularly helpful for these issues as they assist families in recognizing and mobilizing resources [3]. The following table adds even more insight into differences between traditional and resilience-oriented approaches to therapy.
Advocates referring military families to therapy services can use this to help families make informed decisions about what types of counseling may serve their needs. Additionally, professionals providing therapy services to military families can better serve those struggling with PTSD and PTSS by utilizing resilience-based approaches when working with couples.
[1] Melvin, K. C., Gross, D., Hayat, M. J., Jennings, B. M., & Campbell, J. C. (2012). Couple functioning and post‐traumatic stress symptoms in US army couples: The role of resilience. Research in Nursing & Health, 35(2), 164-177.
[2] Weins, T., Boss, P. (2006). Maintaining Family Resiliency Before, During, and After Military Separation. Castro, C. A., Adler, A. B., & Britt, T. W. (2006). Military life: The psychology of serving in peace and combat. (pp. 13-38). Westport, Conn: Praeger Security International, viii, 262 pp.
This post was written by Kimberly Quinn, University of Florida M.Ed./Ed.S. Candidate, 1LT Florida Army National Guard and Kacy Mixon, M.S., LMFT. Both are a member of the MFLN Family Development (FD) team which aims to support the development of professionals working with military families. Find out more about the Military Families Learning Network FD concentration on our website, on Facebook, on Twitter, YouTube, and on LinkedIn.
