Date of Award

2015

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

First Advisor

Murray R Berkowitz, DO, MA, MS, MPH

Second Advisor

Brian Matayoshi, PhD, Associate Director, Biomedical Sciences, Graduate Program

Third Advisor

Richard White, PhD

Abstract

Since September 11th, 2001 The United States Arms has deployed a significantly larger percentage of National Guard and Reserve (NG/R) forces to combat zones in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). The United States Office of Veterans Affairs has reported increased suicide rates and suicide risk for Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) for Soldiers deployed in support of these conflicts in particular. Few studies have assessed the relationship between military component (Active Duty (AD) vs. NG/R), and PTSD prevalence and risk factors but many of studies that exist have reported higher rates in NG/R Soldiers as compared to AD Soldiers. I sought to identify risk factors that make NG/R Soldiers more vulnerable to PTSD in a sample of 11 Army NG/R and AD OEF/OIF veterans. PTSD Prevalence rates were similar between components, but several predictive factors were significantly correlated with PTSD for NG/R veterans. In my thesis I identify and discuss the possible implications for these specific vulnerabilities.

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