A Systematic Literature Review of PTSD Among Female Veterans From 1990 to 2010

Abstract

This article reviews literature over the past twenty years concerning female veterans and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The literature identified sexual trauma, pre-military sexual trauma, combat exposure, substance misuse, and gender difference in the development of PTSD among female veterans from the Gulf War to the current conflicts. Also incorporated in the review are evidence-based and other promising treatment options for female veterans suffering from PTSD. Based on the review, female veterans experience higher rates of military sexual trauma and much of the current research on female veteran related PTSD is focused on sexual trauma that occurs while in the military. As the number of females serving in the military grows, there needs to be a continued effort in understanding the multiple issues they experience before, during, and after their time in the military. Researchers need to continue to address sexual traumas, the disparity in the diagnosis of PTSD, effective treatment options, and further understand the dynamics of comorbidity of other mental health disorders with PTSD. In addition, more research needs to be conducted on how trauma and PTSD impacts family and occupational functioning for female veterans after both their return from operational deployment and completion of military service.