Date of Conferral

2023

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Chet Lesniak

Abstract

In this study, women veterans’ reintegration experiences, challenges, and responsive strategies with social identity, social connection, and social support were explored. Military discharge is a significant life change that disrupts the lives of women veterans in ways different from men and the scientific community is only beginning to research the long-term implications of social determinants of health in different populations. As the U.S. military women veteran population continues to increase, their social experiences, challenges, and responsive strategies during civilian reintegration have remained unexplored. The purpose of this study was to explore the social experiences of women veterans during reintegration to better understand their unique reintegration needs. Interpretive phenomenological analysis was used for study development, data collection, and interpretation. Social identity theory, social identity model of identity change, and state authenticity as fit to environment served as the conceptual framework for study development and analysis. Purposive sampling and social networking sites were used to recruit eight participants. Data collection included audio-recorded semistructured interviews and field notes. Thematic analysis of the narratives resulted in six themes: (a) loss; (b) service before self; (c) unavailable support services; (d) self-reflection and self-discovery; (e) self-isolation, socialization, and reconnection; and (f) feeling undervalued and unrecognized by civilians. This study can effect positive social change by informing gender-specific veteran service providers and policymakers about the reintegration needs of women veterans and highlighting that social difficulties may extend years beyond military discharge.

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