1. Perspectives on Military Culture Among Veterans With a Recent Suicide Attempt: Illustrating Gender Differences and Informing Suicide Prevention.
- Author
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Tompkins, Kyla J., Roth, Brandon, Wu, Tiona Y., Somohano, Vanessa C., and Denneson, Lauren M.
- Subjects
MILITARY culture ,ATTEMPTED suicide ,SUICIDE prevention ,VIOLENCE against women ,VETERANS' health ,VETERANS ,MILITARY spouses - Abstract
This article aims to expand our understanding of military culture as it relates to gender and veterans' mental health, drawing from rich qualitative data. Fifty in-depth interviews (25 men, 25 women) were conducted with veterans who had a recent suicide attempt (within 6 months). Interviews revealed major themes of unequal standards and a hostile environment in the military. Women strived to fit in and experienced differential treatment in their physical training, professional expectations, and family life; men recollected masculine bonds and camaraderie through drinking. Women described the hostile environment of the military through their experiences of sexual violence and both genders described a culture of silence where signs of weakness were shamed. Findings support a cultural shift toward equitable gender norms for military members. Policy should focus on increased transparency institutionally—and between members—as well as improving protection and response to reported abuse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
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