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Full-Text Articles in Military and Veterans Studies

Research Brief: "Va Disability Compensation And Money Spent On Substance Use Among Homeless Veterans: A Controversial Association", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University Nov 2017

Research Brief: "Va Disability Compensation And Money Spent On Substance Use Among Homeless Veterans: A Controversial Association", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University

Institute for Veterans and Military Families

This research examines the amount of money homeless veterans spend on alcohol and drugs, as well as the association between public support income, i.e. VA disability compensation, and expenditures on alcohol and drugs. Though no association was found between VA disability compensation and substance use, this study does underscore the importance of policy establishing substance abuse treatment for homeless veterans. Future studies on this topic should include more female veterans.


Research Brief: "Service Delivery Experiences And Intervention Needs Of Military Families With Children With Asd", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University Nov 2017

Research Brief: "Service Delivery Experiences And Intervention Needs Of Military Families With Children With Asd", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University

Institute for Veterans and Military Families

This study describes the service delivery challenges and intervention needs of military families that include children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who have relocated. In practice and policy, military families with children with ASD living on a military base should consider serving as a mentor to new families on the base to offer information on schools and community resources, and would also benefit from the increased accessibility of resources by the Department of Defense (DoD). More research is needed to learn the best practices of service delivery for military families with children with ASD, and future studies on service delivery …


Research Brief: "Creating Hope: Assisting Veterans With Job Search Strategies Using Cognitive Information Processing Theory", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University Aug 2017

Research Brief: "Creating Hope: Assisting Veterans With Job Search Strategies Using Cognitive Information Processing Theory", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University

Institute for Veterans and Military Families

This study highlights research on common challenges veterans face during their career search, and presents recommendations for meaningful change. The employment needs of veterans can be addressed through cognitive information processing, a career problem solving and decision making theory that involves defining goals, understanding options, ranking options, making a choice, and reflecting on the decided choice. In practice, considering entering the civilian job market after military service can have challenges, and veterans should consider discussing their employment seeking experiences with other veterans who are experiencing similar struggles or who have successfully entered the civilian job market. In practice, the Department …


Research Brief: "Training And Educational Development For “Vetrepreneurs"", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University Jul 2017

Research Brief: "Training And Educational Development For “Vetrepreneurs"", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University

Institute for Veterans and Military Families

This research discusses the types of programs available to veterans, and presents a framework for evaluating the performance of veteran entrepreneurship programs. In practice, veteran entrepreneurs should continue taking advantage of available programs and veteran entrepreneurship program directors, and managers should consider reviewing the eight outcomes provided by the National Council for Graduate Entrepreneurship (NCGE) in the UK. In policy, the VA might continue supporting veteran-owned businesses through its many programs and services, and the SBA might continue offering courses, training, and funding to support veteran entrepreneurs. Suggestions for future research include evaluating what learning outcomes veterans should develop after …


Research Brief: "The Military And The Transition To Adulthood", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University Jan 2017

Research Brief: "The Military And The Transition To Adulthood", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University

Institute for Veterans and Military Families

This study focuses on many of the positive impacts of military service on military spouses, children, and service members. In practice, service members should take steps to educate themselves about the benefits and programs available to them. Military spouses and parents who are service members should also be sure that their children are receiving any needed support and enrichment by utilizing quality education programs, sporting activities, and childcare. In policy, policymakers have implemented and appealed many policies to reduce discrimination because of one’s race, sexuality, or sex in the military, and they may need to implement programs that clearly define …


Research Brief: "The Effect Of Combat Service And Military Rank On Entrepreneurial Careers: The Case Of Israeli Mba Graduates", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University Aug 2016

Research Brief: "The Effect Of Combat Service And Military Rank On Entrepreneurial Careers: The Case Of Israeli Mba Graduates", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University

Institute for Veterans and Military Families

This study examines the association between entrepreneurship and military service in a combat unit, and leadership positions for Israeli veterans enrolled in a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree program. In practice, veterans venturing into entrepreneurship should consider applying the many social skills they attained during their military service. In addition, career advisors should discuss with servicemembers and veterans how their social skills can be applied outside the military. In policy, many of the policy implications can be applied to American veterans, and TAP might offer programs and tools that teach servicemembers interviewing skills, such as maximizing social media platforms. …


Research Brief: "Mental Health Of Transgender Veterans In Us States With And Without Discrimination And Hate Crime Legal Protection", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University Jun 2016

Research Brief: "Mental Health Of Transgender Veterans In Us States With And Without Discrimination And Hate Crime Legal Protection", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University

Institute for Veterans and Military Families

This study suggests that policies protecting transgender individuals from employment discrimination are associated with better mental health, as it found that transgender individuals represent one of the most marginalized populations in both civilian and military communities. In practice, employers should continue encouraging a safe and welcoming environment for all employees, including individuals who identify as transgender, and medical providers serving transgender veterans should consider evaluating their patients’ mental health. In policy, policymakers might continue efforts to reduce discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity and might consider introducing bills to protect LGBTQ+ persons. Suggestions for future study include sampling …


Research Brief: "Spousal Military Deployment During Pregnancy And Adverse Birth Outcomes", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University May 2016

Research Brief: "Spousal Military Deployment During Pregnancy And Adverse Birth Outcomes", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University

Institute for Veterans and Military Families

This study assesses the association between a spouse’s military deployment and adverse birth outcomes, and concluded that the effect of a spouse’s deployment on adverse birth outcomes can vary by maternal age. Given that a deployment during pregnancy or delivery can negatively affect the mother and baby, policymakers might allocate funds for additional research on the needs of expectant mothers with a deployed spouse. Future work in this field should further evaluate maternal age and number of children as modifiers of the association between these variables.


Research Brief: "Military Sexual Trauma Among Recent Veterans: Correlates Of Sexual Assault And Sexual Harassment", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University Apr 2016

Research Brief: "Military Sexual Trauma Among Recent Veterans: Correlates Of Sexual Assault And Sexual Harassment", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University

Institute for Veterans and Military Families

This study examines the population prevalence of military sexual trauma among OEF/OIF-era veterans. It found that almost 41% of women and 4% of men reported a military sexual trauma, indicating a high prevalence of OEF/OIF-era veterans who have experienced an MST. In practice, servicemembers and veterans who have experienced a military sexual trauma (MST) should seek medical help, such as counseling. In policy, the Department of Defense (DoD) might continue its efforts to reduce negative repercussions often associated with reporting sexual assault or sexual harassment. Suggestions for future research include having more data on the prevalence of MST in the …


Research Brief: "Women Military Veterans, Disability, And Employment", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University Mar 2016

Research Brief: "Women Military Veterans, Disability, And Employment", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University

Institute for Veterans and Military Families

This study compares the disability status of female veterans to non-veterans and male veterans using American Community Survey data pooled from 2008, 2009, and 2010. In practice, both female and male veterans who have a service-related disability and are involved in the civilian labor force should familiarize themselves with their employment rights under the American with Disabilities Act (ADA). In policy, the Department of Labor (DOL) might continue enforcing federal laws to protect veterans with service-related disabilities and help them gain employment in the civilian workforce. The VA and the DOL might also partner to assist female veterans in obtaining …


Research Brief: "Three Generations, Three Wars: African American Veterans", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University Feb 2016

Research Brief: "Three Generations, Three Wars: African American Veterans", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University

Institute for Veterans and Military Families

This study addresses the gap in literature on the African American perspective of veteran's experiences during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Research found that the interviewed men reported racist experiences, and also found they perceived service to the country aided their growth as men and as activists. Although African American service members were essential to the U.S. war effort, official accounts of their service are often excluded or misreported, and would benefit from policymakers using the narrative experiences of veterans to continue to introduce policies and programs that encourage diversity. Researchers are encouraged to continue …


Research Brief: "Military And Mental Health Correlates Of Unemployment In A National Sample Of Women Veterans", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University Aug 2015

Research Brief: "Military And Mental Health Correlates Of Unemployment In A National Sample Of Women Veterans", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University

Institute for Veterans and Military Families

This study found that unemployment among female veterans was independently associated with screening positive for depression, as well as several other factors related to military service and veteran status. In practice, caring for the mental health of female veterans might improve their employment prospects, and in addition, many unemployed female veterans expressed that civilian coworkers did not understand their military experience. In policy, the VA and other federal agencies might model programs to support unemployed female veterans after the Institute for Veterans and Military Families’ Veteran Women Igniting the Spirit of Entrepreneurship (V-WISE) program. Suggestions for future study include incorporating …


Research Brief: "Suicidality Among Military-Connected Adolescents In California Schools", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University May 2015

Research Brief: "Suicidality Among Military-Connected Adolescents In California Schools", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University

Institute for Veterans and Military Families

This study examines the prevalence of suicidal ideations among military-connected youth in California, and found that twenty-four percent of military-connected youth reported seriously considering suicide. Given these findings, school personnel and mental health providers should teach coping techniques for anxiety, depression, and stress; they would also benefit from implementing a policy that forbids service members from bringing firearms home during extended leaves and weekends. Future studies should sample military children of all grade levels, including college/university.


Research Brief: "Sexual Assault Training In The Military: Evaluating Efforts To End The “Invisible War”", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University Apr 2015

Research Brief: "Sexual Assault Training In The Military: Evaluating Efforts To End The “Invisible War”", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University

Institute for Veterans and Military Families

This study assesses whether prevention and education by the Department of Defense (DoD) fostered accurate knowledge about sexual assault resources and protocols among active duty personnel, and also how service members perceive the effectiveness of these efforts. Medical professionals and counselors serving sexual assault survivors should offer comprehensive and inclusive treatment, and would benefit from policies that enforce sexual assault prevention and response training which ensures that all service members are provided with the essential training needed to reduce sexual assault. Future research should collect data on the length of military service, which could provide useful information on the breadth …


Research Brief: "Five-Year Trends In Women Veterans’ Use Of Va Maternity Benefits, 2008-2012", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University Mar 2015

Research Brief: "Five-Year Trends In Women Veterans’ Use Of Va Maternity Benefits, 2008-2012", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University

Institute for Veterans and Military Families

This study sheds light on usage of VHA services by women, as it found that there is an increasing number of women returning from deployment, which is leading to an increase in female veterans. To meet the growing needs of female veterans, community-based providers should coordinate care with the VHA and other health providers to ensure that the reproductive health needs of veteran women are adequately addressed. In policy, the VHA might devise more cost-effective means for care while continuing to provide high-quality reproductive health care services to female veterans. Suggestions for future study include examining how access to insurance …


Research Brief: "Veterans’ Attitudes Toward Work And Disability Compensation: Associations With Substance Abuse", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University Oct 2014

Research Brief: "Veterans’ Attitudes Toward Work And Disability Compensation: Associations With Substance Abuse", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University

Institute for Veterans and Military Families

This study compares attitudes towards employment and service-connected disabilities among substance using and non-using veterans. In practice, veterans place a high value on being employed, regardless of whether they use substances; however, veterans who used substances were more likely to express fear of losing disability benefits if they became employed. In policy, state-level agencies and programs might work with counseling centers to determine the most productive ways to address the specific employment needs of veterans with disabilities and/or substance use issues. Suggestions for future study include sampling larger populations on a randomized basis to ensure that the results found here …


Research Brief: "Cost-Effectiveness Of Supported Employment For Veterans With Spinal Cord Injuries", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University Oct 2014

Research Brief: "Cost-Effectiveness Of Supported Employment For Veterans With Spinal Cord Injuries", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University

Institute for Veterans and Military Families

This study focuses on individuals with a spinal cord injury (SCI) and their employment challenges. Clinical trials on supported employment (SE) intervention have established that SE is at least two times more effective in gaining competitive employment, and the cost of Spinal Cord Injury Vocational Integration Program (SCI-VIP) intervention at the one-year mark was not significantly different from the usual employment assistance offered to veterans with SCI. In practice, Veterans with SCI looking for employment should participate in SE interventions offered through the VA or other organizations, and Veterans with SCI who are seeking employment should know that there are …


Research Brief: "The Effect Of 21st Century Military Service On Civilian Labor And Educational Outcomes", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University Aug 2014

Research Brief: "The Effect Of 21st Century Military Service On Civilian Labor And Educational Outcomes", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University

Institute for Veterans and Military Families

This study aims to understand the effect military service post-9/11 has on veterans, as it found veteran status positively affects minorities and women. In practice, 21st century veterans are as employable and satisfied with their civilian occupation as their non-veteran counterparts, and veterans seeking employment and career opportunities should continue utilizing VetSuccess. In policy, the VA and policymakers might evaluate current services, and focus on employment experiences and reasons veterans seek education post-service. Suggestions for future study include improving the external validity by using larger samples, as well as including datasets with older 21st century veterans to better account for …


Research Brief: "The Evaluation Of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction For Veterans With Mental Health Conditions", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University Jul 2014

Research Brief: "The Evaluation Of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction For Veterans With Mental Health Conditions", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University

Institute for Veterans and Military Families

This brief is about the usage of mindfulness-based stress reduction for the psychological well-being of veterans with mental health conditions. In policy and practice, mindfulness-based stress reduction instructors should be certified in the processes of mindfulness, and professionals should create a standardized mindfulness-based stress reduction treatment manual; the VHA could include mindfulness-based stress reduction treatments into current treatment plans and could commission studies about if they are more cost-effective than pharmacologic treatments. Suggestions for future research include conducting individual interviews in addition to group interviews, and assessing the effectiveness of mindfulness-based stress reduction on PTSD outcomes.


Research Brief: "Expedited Citizenship For Sale: Estimating The Effect Of Executive Order 13269 On Noncitizen Military Enlistments", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University Jun 2014

Research Brief: "Expedited Citizenship For Sale: Estimating The Effect Of Executive Order 13269 On Noncitizen Military Enlistments", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University

Institute for Veterans and Military Families

This study utilized empirical data to analyze the impact of Executive Order 13269, a recruiting strategy enacted by former president George W. Bush that provides expedited citizenship to non-citizens who join the U.S. military, and it found that there was no overall effect of the Executive Order on the number of non-citizen enlistments into the military. In practice, non-citizens interested in U.S. citizenship should consider military enlistment as an alternative to the typical path to citizenship, and both non-citizen and citizen veterans should familiarize themselves with the plethora of resources available to them. In policy, the Department of Defense might …


Research Brief: "Veteran Ally: Practical Strategies For Closing The Military-Civilian Gap On Campus", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University Jun 2014

Research Brief: "Veteran Ally: Practical Strategies For Closing The Military-Civilian Gap On Campus", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University

Institute for Veterans and Military Families

This study examines what changes universities and colleges can make to lessen transitional challenges for student veterans. In practice, through building relationships with other student veterans and their supporters, incoming student veterans could potentially feel more connected to the student body and the university. In policy, DoD and VA administrators might work with college campuses to provide training resources for educators and university officials on how to best address concerns and issues student veterans commonly have upon their arrival to campus and throughout their academic career. Suggestions for future research include determining if the study results are geographically generalizable among …


Research Brief: "Teaching Post 9/11 Student Veterans With Symptoms Of Ptsd: The Influence Of Faculty Perceptions And Self-Efficacy", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University Apr 2014

Research Brief: "Teaching Post 9/11 Student Veterans With Symptoms Of Ptsd: The Influence Of Faculty Perceptions And Self-Efficacy", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University

Institute for Veterans and Military Families

This study aims to understand how perceptions of veterans and their military service influence instructor self-efficacy, and is important because enrollment of veterans into higher education is expected to continue increasing. In practice, universities should encourage a collaborative understanding between student veterans and faculty members to assist in producing positive educational outcomes, and policies should consider providing more resources for veterans at universities. Future research should strive to have a larger sample size, and use more neutral words that have fewer negative connotations.


Research Brief: "When Veterans Return: The Role Of Community In Reintegration", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University Apr 2014

Research Brief: "When Veterans Return: The Role Of Community In Reintegration", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University

Institute for Veterans and Military Families

This study examines the experiences active duty service members and military veterans face upon their return to civilian life, and reflects that many veterans desire a formal transitional period from military to civilian life in order to help them readjust. Service members should join peer mentor or support groups with other veterans who had similar experiences and feelings about their reintegration into civilian life; policy makers might work with VA administrators to create a comprehensive transitional program for service members who are leaving the military in order to facilitate a smooth re-entry into civilian life. Further exploration of the links …


Research Brief: "Unemployment, Earnings, And Enrollment Among Post 9/11 Veterans", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University Mar 2014

Research Brief: "Unemployment, Earnings, And Enrollment Among Post 9/11 Veterans", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University

Institute for Veterans and Military Families

This study found that Afghanistan/Iraq era veterans have a higher likelihood of unemployment than non-veterans, with female veterans faring worse than their male counterparts. In practice, female veterans of the post-9/11 era suffer from higher absolute levels of unemployment than male veterans, as well as also experiencing a higher unemployment penalty from their service relative to their civilian counterparts than male veterans do. In policy, policymakers may wish to determine ways to increase utilization of GI Bill benefits among disadvantaged populations to increase their long-term employment and earnings. Suggestions for future study include considering the surge of female veterans, and …


Research Brief: “Clinical And Demographic Factors Associated With Employment Status In Us Military Veterans Returning From Iraq And Afghanistan”, Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University Feb 2014

Research Brief: “Clinical And Demographic Factors Associated With Employment Status In Us Military Veterans Returning From Iraq And Afghanistan”, Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University

Institute for Veterans and Military Families

This brief focuses on the connection between employment status and veterans with or without PTSD, mild Traumatic Brain Injury, sleep issues, or pain issues. In practice, depression and those 40+ years of age were associated with the employment status in this study of a sample of post-deployment U.S. veterans. In policy, it is found that policymakers should know that veterans' adjustment issues may not be the threshold of being effective employees. Future research could target combat veterans’ motivations and the ability to pursue education, as well as a study of those who are employed and have had an mTBI and …


Research Brief: "The Demographics Of Military Children And Families", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University Jan 2014

Research Brief: "The Demographics Of Military Children And Families", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University

Institute for Veterans and Military Families

This study examines the the demographics of military families, which can be used to can assist in better serving their needs, reducing their stress, and increasing their happiness with military life. The diversity of these families significantly impacts their interaction with their social networks and societal institutions, and would benefit from policy that creates additional programs aimed at helping military children through critical military transition points. Additional research is needed on how younger children operate in military families, and the impact of supports available for spouses caring for younger children during deployments and separation from their spouse.


Research Brief: "Soldiers To Citizens: The Link Between Military Service And Volunteering", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University Nov 2013

Research Brief: "Soldiers To Citizens: The Link Between Military Service And Volunteering", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University

Institute for Veterans and Military Families

This research examines the relationship between military service and political engagement, such as voting and volunteering. This study found that older and married veterans were more likely to volunteer than their younger and unmarried counterparts, and therefore veterans who are suffering from depression or loss of purpose might benefit from programs that encourage volunteering. Future research should further investigate the links between individual socioeconomic characteristics, family, social support, and engagement in volunteer work.


Research Brief: "Beyond Yellow Ribbons: Are Employers Prepared To Hire, Accommodate, And Retain Returning Veterans With Disabilities?", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University Nov 2013

Research Brief: "Beyond Yellow Ribbons: Are Employers Prepared To Hire, Accommodate, And Retain Returning Veterans With Disabilities?", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University

Institute for Veterans and Military Families

This brief focuses on analyses on employers' policies and accommodations for hiring veterans with disabilities, and the effect on recruiting rates for these veterans. In practice, veterans with disabilities can increase their chances of finding suitable employment by consulting supporting agencies such as the VetSuccess Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or the Wounded Warriors program. Suggestions for future study include everyday work life, as well as utilizing mixed methods to further examine the relationship between implementation and impact of diversity plans and accommodation practices.


Research Brief: "Investing In Vets: Strategies To Help Returning Gulf War Vets Enter The Civilian Work Force Successfully", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University Oct 2013

Research Brief: "Investing In Vets: Strategies To Help Returning Gulf War Vets Enter The Civilian Work Force Successfully", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University

Institute for Veterans and Military Families

This study found that corporate leadership, veteran-specific training, and a long-term commitment to veterans’ employment were all significant factors in diminishing barriers to veteran employment and reintegration. In practice, social workers who understand business and organizational change can be leaders in supporting veterans in the workplace, and also in advocating for positive social change for veterans and their families. For employers, increased cultural competence concerning military populations would be helpful. In policy, organizations should work on creating coalitions of corporate leaders who have the power to change policies, programs, and practices, and who will monitor the success of these policy …


Research Brief: "Student Veterans In Transition: Re-Enrolling After War Zone Deployments", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University Oct 2013

Research Brief: "Student Veterans In Transition: Re-Enrolling After War Zone Deployments", Institute For Veterans And Military Families At Syracuse University

Institute for Veterans and Military Families

This study examines the individual-level transitions encountered by student veterans (National Guard and Reserve members) as they re-enroll in college post-deployment, while also attempting to account for the complexities of student and veteran identities. In practice, service members who are re-enrolling in college at the undergraduate level should seek out support groups for student veterans, and most universities have focused attention on ensuring that veterans understand their available benefits, which is a significant step forward; however, universities should also implement support services for veterans in the form of student veteran organizations and support groups. Suggestions for future study include having …