Allocating More Resources Towards OEF or OIF Veterans Adjust to Civilian Life

VA HEALTHCARE FROM BOOTS TO SUITS
NAme
University
Course
Year
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section

Section Title

Pages

1

Summary of Research Project

3

2

Introduction and Problem Statement

3

3

Research Methodology

5

4

Findings and Conclusions

7

5

Recommendations Related to Findings

16

6

Recommendations Related to Additional Studies

16

7

Footnotes

18

8

Bibliography and References

19

9

Appendices

20

1. Summary of Research Project
The research project sought to determine the perceptions of returning Operation Enduring Freedom / Operation Iraqi Freedom (OEF/OIF) veterans in terms of the preparation afforded them by the Armed Forces during re-entry into civilian life. This study employed a quantitative research design where a sample population of veterans who had served in various combat operations was asked to fill in a questionnaire, which was designed to collect collective experiences in relation to the adjustment process. The survey results were later analyzed descriptively and inferentially. It was revealed that veterans, especially those returning from OEF/OIF missions, have difficulty adjusting to new civilian routines as well as navigating social relationships. More importantly, the research project showed that a significant proportion of veterans are ill-prepared for re-entry into civilian life. The study recommends that the Department of Defense allocate more resources towards helping veterans adjust to civilian life as well as expand its compensation program for service-related injuries/disabilities.
2. Introduction and Problem Statement
Research Problem
The research study seeks to answer the research question: What are the perceptions of returning Operation Enduring Freedom / Operation Iraqi Freedom (OEF/OIF) veterans in terms of the preparation afforded them by the Armed Forces during re-entry into civilian life?
Significance of Study
Many veterans experience significant challenges when re-entering civilian life. Although the government has instituted several programs to help veterans during this marked transition, OEF and OIF veterans continue to face numerous difficulties adjusting to civilian life. These problems are tied to the fact that many veterans have spent a significant time in unfamiliar environments during deployments and have also suffered the traumas of combat missions during their military service. Learning how to navigate everyday responsibilities and social interactions involving friends, family, and the general civilian society can be difficult given the ingrained and extant militant perspective. Maintaining the right balance between one's previous life and current civilian demands often results in many veterans experiencing enormous stress levels and subsequent rehabilitation, family readjustment, and mental health issues, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and various anxiety disorders.[Stanton, M., Parker, M. W., McDougall, G., & Eyer, J. C. (2017). Reintegration Issues of Military Nurses: A Focus Group Approach. Best...