Date

7-21-2026

Department

School of Behavioral Sciences

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD)

Chair

Coltea, Florin

Keywords

Caregivers, Combat-wounded veterans, social isolation, domestic violence, Intimate Partner Violence

Disciplines

Psychology

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to help bridge the gap in understanding the relationship between caregivers and the impact that caring for a combat-wounded veteran has on their relationship with society, and whether social isolation gives way to an increase in domestic violence. In addition, this study explored the biblical implications of caring for combat-wounded individuals and how to better serve those who care for society's wounded. The population comprised 49 combat-wounded veteran caregivers who were assigned anonymous surveys and contacted via various military caregiver sites or organizations. Participants completed a survey that will track their demographic information, along with identifying social isolation markers, intimate partner violence (domestic violence), and mental health issues. The results of this study illustrate that caregiving for combat-wounded veterans carries measurable psychological and social costs. Loneliness and depression result in moderate to high perceived social isolation; the mean PHQ 9 score was approximately 10.3, indicating moderate depressive symptomatology. Results showed more than 76% of respondents endorsed at least one domestic violence risk indicator; roughly 22% scored in a “serious threat” range. The data thus reinforce the need for policy intervention, improved accessibility to mental health services, and respite-care funding for those who shoulder the invisible burden of caring for America’s wounded warriors.

Download

Included in

Psychology Commons

Share

COinS