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Description
Purpose: This research delves into the occupational needs of military spouses during deployments, investigating how deployments influence their well-being and occupational performance. This study aims to increase awareness and advocate for military spouses by gaining greater insight into their lived experiences during deployments.
Methods: A mixed-methods research design - 40 participants for the survey and 6 interviewees. The survey was guided by the SAMHSA's eight dimensions of wellness and a modified Role Checklist to identify the impact of deployments on wellness and role participation. The interview was based on a modified MOHOST assessment tool to explore the impact on occupational participation and performance. The study used thematic analysis to create themes.
Results: Military spouses' emotional and physical wellness were the most impacted during deployments (80%). The role of a Caregiver is shown to be the most demanding. Two themes identified are factors that "inhibit" or "facilitate" well-being and occupations of military spouses.
Conclusion: Deployments significantly impact military spouses' emotional and physical wellness due to increased occupational disruptions. Military spouses need substantial support in maintaining health and promoting occupational performance. Future program development and advocacy are required to better address military spouses' occupational needs and barriers during deployments.
Publication Date
Summer 8-16-2023
Publisher
University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences
Keywords
Military Spouses, Deployments, United States Armed Forces, Well-being, Occupations, Mixed-Methods Research
Medical Subject Headings
Humans, Female, Spouses, Military Personnel, Military Family
Disciplines
Occupational Therapy | Psychology
Recommended Citation
Lee, S., & Lyons-Brown, A. (2023, August 16). The Occupational Needs of Military Spouses During Deployments. Poster presented at the Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium, University of St Augustine for Health Sciences. Retrieved from https://soar.usa.edu/otdcapstonessummer2023/14
Comments
Poster presented at the Summer 2023 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium held online at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences on August 2-9, 2023