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.

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