Eating Disorders in Military and Veteran Men and Women: A Systematic Review
Abstract: Objective: Eating disorders (EDs) have serious consequences for psychological and physical health. They have high mortality rates and are among the most costly disorders to treat. However, EDs remain understudied in military and veteran populations. The aim of this review was to examine prevalence estimates and associated symptomatology of EDs among military and veteran men and women and to identify factors that may put these individuals at risk for the development of an ED for the purposes of improving detection, intervention, and treatment. Method: A thorough literature review was conducted using the databases PsycINFO and PubMed. All articles with a focus on EDs in military/veteran samples were considered. Results: Studies reveal high prevalence estimates of EDs among military/veteran men and women. Unique features of military life may increase the risk for development of an ED, including: military sexual trauma, strict weight and physical fitness requirements, and combat exposure. A history of trauma was common in individuals diagnosed with an ED in military and veteran samples. Discussion: The high rates of EDs among military and veteran samples underscore the importance of further research, as well as the importance of screening and intervention efforts, in these understudied populations.
Abstract:United States military veterans face challenges when reintegrating into civilian society. Among these difficulties often exist barriers for veterans in navigating work and career experiences. This study tested factors that may contribute to experiences of decent work and reintegration in a sample of 90 United States veterans. Utilizing the Psychology of Working Theory as a framework, veterans' social support was hypothesized to be a moderating factor in the relationship between veterans' experiences of marginalization and decent work. Additionally, decent work was examined as a potential mediator in the association between veterans' career adaptability and reintegration. Separate moderation and mediation models were tested to examine the study's hypotheses. Results did not find social support to moderate the relationship between marginalization and decent work. However, decent work significantly and partially mediated the relationship between career adaptability and reintegration. Interpretation of these findings in the context of the literature is discussed, as well as implications for practice and theory, limitations, and future directions.