When Family Members Go To War--A Systemic Perspective on Harm and Healing: Comment on Dirkzwager, Bramsen, Adèr, and van der Ploeg (2005).

Abstract

The article by A. J. E. Dirkzwager, I. Bramsen, H. Adèr, and H. M. van der Ploeg (2005; see record 2005-06518-006) provides compelling evidence of trauma transmission of posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) from male peacekeepers to their female partners. Given the rise in troop deployment throughout the globe and increased exposure of soldiers to combat violence, the investigation is highly relevant, important and timely, illustrating the broad systemic emotional toll on couples when partners go to war. The purpose of this comment is to recommend future research directions (a) to reveal the characteristics of those individuals, couples, and family members that may be predictive of vulnerability and resiliency to PTSS and its sequelae; (b) to understand the interrelationship of PTSS and secondary trauma, relationship adjustment, and social support; and (c) to develop and test intervention methods that may be effective in reducing PTSS and other psychosocial problems among peacekeepers, their partners, and other family members.