Advisor
Softas-Nall, Basilia
Committee Member
Johnson, Brian
Committee Member
Helm, Heather
Committee Member
Hutchinson, Susan R.
Department
Applied Psychology & Counselor Education
Institution
University of Northern Colorado
Type of Resources
Text
Place of Publication
Greeley (Colo.)
Publisher
University of Northern Colorado
Date Created
5-1-2011
Genre
Thesis
Extent
226 pages
Digital Origin
Born digital
Description
This study examined the following six research questions: (a) to what extent do previous military deployments relate to college adjustment; (b) are multiple deployments to combat zones more likely to increase adjustment difficulties; (c) to what degree does posttraumatic stress disorder relate to college adjustment; (d) to what extent does permanent physical injury from deployment relate to college adjustment; (e) to what degree does level of unit support relate to college adjustment; and (f) to what extent does level of postdeployment support relate to college adjustment? Survey results from 128 student veterans/military at two- and four-year institutions were examined through multiple regression. There was statistical significance, at the p<.05 level for three of six research hypothesis. The PTSD, unit support, and postdeployment support variables contributed uniquely to the explanation of college adjustment. Student veterans and military with higher levels of reported PTSD symptoms had lower levels of college adjustment; whereas, those who reported higher levels of unit support and postdeployment support had higher levels of college adjustment. The current study supported previous research demonstrating the importance of perceived social support in dealing with life transitions and trauma. Social support buffers the effects of posttraumatic stress disorder as well. The results of the current study give institutions of higher education insight into dealing with student veterans by indicating how critical perceived support is for successful transition.
Notes
Dean's Citation for Excellence
Degree type
PhD
Degree Name
Doctoral
Language
English
Local Identifiers
Ingala_unco_0161D_10071.pdf
Rights Statement
Copyright is held by author.
