Abstract
Objective: The sexual lives of returning Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF), Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF), and Operation New Dawn (OND) veterans have only been discussed minimally in the psychological literature. Given the nature of military social and cultural contexts, the potential for exposure to combat-related stressors that may lead to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and the risk of traumatic brain injury secondary to physical injury, the potential for significant psychological and relational ramifications exists. This article focuses on the intimate relationships and sexuality of returning OIF/OEF/OND veterans within the context of their personal cultural variables and the diverse experience of being a part of military life. Conclusions: Culturally competent assessment and evidenced-based treatment approaches are highlighted to offer clinicians initial strategies to begin treatment of sexuality issues within the returning Veteran population. These clinical tools are discussed within a positive psychology approach that emphasizes healthy sexuality as a part of overall satisfactory quality of life.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 289-301 |
Number of pages | 13 |
Journal | Rehabilitation Psychology |
Volume | 56 |
Issue number | 4 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Nov 2011 |
Keywords
- Disability
- PTSD
- Sex
- TBI
- Veterans
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation
- Rehabilitation
- Clinical Psychology
- Psychiatry and Mental health