Biological, psychological, social, and spiritual health of active duty women: An exploratory study

Abstract

LAY SUMMARY This study explored the physical, psychological, social, and spiritual health of active duty women, including how each of these dimensions of health is related to one another. In particular, this study addresses active duty women’s health and experiences associated with trauma, sexual harassment, deployment, and physical health outcomes. A total of 76 active duty women completed a survey consisting of questions about demographics, physical health, psychological health, physical and psychological trauma history, social support, history of sexual harassment, and spirituality. Results showed that women with larger waist circumference had more physical pain and previous experiences with sexual harassment. Also, women who experienced more traumatic events in their lifetime were more involved in organized and non-organized religion or spiritual activities. Being in the military influences every service member’s health; however, more attention is needed to understanding the ways in which biopsychosocial-spiritual assessments and treatment can be created and adopted by medical, mental health, social service, and spiritual health providers.