Veterans’ Civilian Employment Experiences: Lessons Learnt from Focus Groups.
Abstract: Employment of veterans after leaving military service appears to be an important factor affecting their transition back to civilian life. Although there are employment programs in place to assist veterans in their search for civilian employment post-service, these programs tend to focus on the practical aspects such as resume writing and interview skills. However, difficulties finding employment are most likely caused by more than just these practical factors. This study conducted focus groups with US military veterans to understand the veterans experiences of finding employment after leaving service. The focus groups highlighted experiences before they leave military service such as if they made any plans and preparations and factors after leaving service such experiencing barriers from employers as affecting their civilian employment success. Another key factor was whether the veterans were self-motivated and determined to continue to find employment even in the face of the challenges. These findings are important for understanding and informing the employment support veterans may need.
Abstract: Objective: The present study is a retrospective quasi-experimental study to evaluate the effectiveness of the Warrior PATHH (WP) program at improving posttraumatic growth (PTG) outcomes and reducing PTSD symptoms compared to a waitlist control among a sample of Veterans. Method: Participants (n = 164) were U.S. military Veterans with a history of trauma. Participants were either undergoing the Warrior PATHH program or a waitlist. Primary outcome measures were administered at baseline and at 90-day follow-up and consisted of the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory – Expanded (PTGI-X) and the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5). Secondary outcome measures assessed psychosocial functioning and included measures of depression and anxiety symptoms, sleep, wellbeing, and social support. Results: Significant differences were observed between groups on the PTGI-X (F(1, 205) = 23.667, p < .001, partial η2 = 0.103), and the PCL-5 (F(1, 205) = 262.460, p < .001, partial η2 = 0.561) with the WP group showing significant positive psychological change following a traumatic event as measured by the PTGI-X and decreased PTSD symptoms as measured by the PCL-5 compared to those in the waitlist condition. Those in the treatment arm also demonstrated gains to psychosocial functioning. Conclusions: Consistent with previous research, participants in the Warrior PATHH program exhibited significant increases in PTG outcomes, decreased PTSD symptoms, and broad improvements to psychosocial functioning. These findings suggest it is an effective training program to foster PTG outcomes among Veterans. This study is unique as it is the first to compare the effects of WP programming with a sample of waitlisted Veterans.