Families of returned defence force personnel: A changing landscape of challenges

Publication Type:
Journal Article
Citation:
Australasian Psychiatry, 2015, 23 (4), pp. 399 - 402
Issue Date:
2015-01-01
Filename Description Size
Berle et al - Families of defence force personnel.pdfAccepted Manuscript Version89.24 kB
Adobe PDF
Full metadata record
Objective: This paper aims to identify the key challenges experienced by the families of defence force personnel following deployment. Method: We undertook a selective review of four post-deployment challenges to the families of defence force personnel: (1) changes to relationships; (2) changes to family member roles and responsibilities; (3) adjustment of children and parenting challenges; and (4) anger, family conflict and violence. Emerging issues in the area of postdeployment adjustment are also discussed. Results: Empirical studies of post-deployment family adjustment are lacking. Each of the reviewed challenges can contribute to psychological difficulties and precipitate contact with mental health services. Conclusions: The challenges faced by defence force personnel when returning from deployment arise within a family context. Clinicians should thoroughly assess these factors in families following deployment, but also recognise family strengths and resilience to these challenges.
Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: