Patterns of psychosocial functioning of treatment-seeking veterans following military sexual trauma: The differential association of functioning and identity.

Abstract

Veterans with a history of military sexual trauma (MST) often experience poorer social, psychological, and physical outcomes compared with civilians and veterans who have experienced sexual assault outside of the military. Studies suggest some differences in endorsement of MST and its symptoms based on ethnoracial, age, sexuality, and gender-related factors. However, investigations into potential diversity-related patterns of functioning are sparse. This study examined the associations between identity factors and psychosocial functioning among veterans seeking mental health treatment following MST. During intake assessments, veterans (n = 144) completed semistructured clinical interviews and the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 as part of routine clinical care at a Midwestern Veterans Healthcare Administration hospital. Psychosocial functioning domains (cognition, mobility, self-care, getting along, life activities, and participation in society) were analyzed across veterans' race, age, sex, and sexual identity. Results revealed differences in participation in society based on sex and race and in mobility based on race and age. No significant differences were observed in functional domains for sexual identity. These findings highlight the importance of assessing salient identity factors and delivering culturally sensitive trauma-focused care. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).