Differences between the reintegration of combat Veterans and noncombat Veterans while controlling for stigma

Abstract: Veterans face challenges in reintegrating into civilian life. Experiences of public stigma arise from socially learned stereotypes about military service and mental health issues, which can impact veterans' ability to reintegrate following military deployment successfully. Goffman’s theory of stigma details its influences on personal adjustment. The purpose of this quantitative research study utilizing a survey design was to assess the role of public stigma as a mediator between the type of deployment and veterans’ reintegration experiences. A snowball sample of 85 recently discharged veteran volunteers representing combat zone deployed or non-combat zone deployed completed the Military Stigma Scale and the Military to Civilian Questionnaire. Regression analysis failed to show a significant relationship between type of deployment and reintegration. Post hoc analyses did reveal a significant relationship between type of deployment and stigma. Findings suggest more research is warranted on the role of stigma in veteran reintegration. This can lead to positive social change by highlighting the need to better understand the impact of stigma for military veterans which in turn can help identify where greater support is needed.

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